Every year, we look forward to summer vacations, camping, family reunions, and picnics. Summertime, however, can also bring unwanted fires and injuries due to these outdoor activities. During the month of June, the Ridge VFD will share summer fire safety tips on various topics. This week, we focus on Hotel/Motel Safety.

With the school year coming to a close, everyone is turning their attention to vacation plans. The Ridge VFD asks that you remember to incorporate fire safety into travel plans before hitting the road for your summer retreat. It is just as important to be prepared and know what you would do in a hotel/motel emergency as it is in your own home. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), on average, one of every 14 hotels or motels reported a structure fire each year. Each year there are an estimated 3,900 hotel and motel fires that cause 15 deaths, 100 injuries, and $100 million in property losses. Cooking is the leading cause of hotel and motel fires.

Being mindful of the following safety points will help ensure that your upcoming vacation is as safe as it is fun!

• Choose a hotel/motel that is protected by both smoke alarms and a fire sprinkler system.
• When you check in, ask the front desk what the fire alarm sounds like.
• Find the fire alarms on your floor.
• When you enter your room, review the escape plan posted in your room.
• Take the time to find the two closest exits and count the number of doors between your room and the exit. Make sure the exits are unlocked. If they are locked, report it to management right away.
• Keep your room key and mobile phone by your bed and take them with you if there is a fire/alarm.

If You Hear an Alarm:
• Leave the room immediately, taking your room key and mobile phone, and closing all doors behind you.
• Use the stairs – never use elevators during a fire.
• If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit.
• If all escape routes are blocked, return to your room.

If You Can’t Escape:
• SHUT off fans and air conditioners.
• STUFF wet towels in the crack around the doors.
• CALL the fire department/911 and let them know your location.
• WAIT at the window and signal with a flashlight or light-colored cloth.

Be safe when traveling!