Apartment Safety

Total Time.............00:00

Intro
Pre Quiz
Article
Game
FAQ
Post Quiz
Lesson Plan

Overview

Leaving home and choosing a first apartment is exciting. This lesson challenges the student to
create and use a safety and security checklist when evaluating potential apartments.
This lesson complements the LifeSmarts ConsumerMan Video titled House Fires.

Lesson Objective(s)

Construct an audit to compare safety and security features at potential apartments.
Create an awareness of apartment safety and security for first time renters.

House Fires Video for LifeSmarts by ConsumerMan Herb Weisbaum

Apartment Safety Game

FAQs

What are the leading causes of college campus fires?

Cooking, hot plates, microwaves, portable grills, and overloading extension cords.

If you find yourself in a fire, what precaution should be taken before leaving the room or the apartment?

Feel the door to make sure it is cool and is safe to exit. If the door is hot, stuff wet towels under the door and use another exit or call the fire department to make sure that your presence in the building is known.

How often should I test my apartment’s smoke alarm?

Test all detectors once a month by pushing the test button on the detector. Replace the detector’s batteries at least once a year. Report broken or damaged fire alarms to your landlord or college’s housing department immediately.

What are the essential safety items that I should have in an apartment?

Smoke alarm
Carbon monoxide detector
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Ice (in case of emergency)
List of emergency contacts, including the local poison control center

Why do fires today burn out of control more quickly than in the past?

Advances in home building, and new materials used in furniture and furnishings have created what fire researchers have called “a perfect storm.” Today, a home or apartment fire can burn out of control in less than five minutes. This is called flashover.

What does PASS mean?

PASS is an acronym for the operation of a fire extinguisher:

Pull the pin, holding the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you. Release the locking mechanism.

Aim low, pointing the extinguisher at the base of the fire.

Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side

Should I get a carbon monoxide detector for my apartment?

If your apartment or dorm uses gas appliances like stoves, dryers, or heating, you should be sure a carbon monoxide detector is installed in bedrooms or common spaces near such appliances. If you are unsure if your building has gas appliances, check with your landlord or college’s housing department. Remember, carbon monoxide is clear and odorless. Ensure your home has the proper safety equipment to avoid being sick or injured.

Should I practice an escape plan from my apartment in case of a real fire?

Yes! It is vital to have an evacuation plan in place before disasters strike. Practice several routes to exit your apartment safety. If you live in shared accommodations, be sure other occupants are aware of how to evacuate in case of an emergency. Some college dorms or on-campus housing buildings require fire drills are performed for all residents.