Get a smoke alarm installed
You can request smoke alarms through Philly311 (via the app or by phone), and the Fire Department will install them in your home. You should have one alarm on each floor of your home, including the basement.
To receive smoke alarms, you must live in the City of Philadelphia in a one- or two-family home that is occupied by the owner. If you live in an apartment building, or are renting a house, the landlord must provide smoke alarms on every level of the home. If your landlord has not provided smoke alarms, call Philly311 to report the violation.
It might take up to 60 days from the time of your request until the actual installation.
Prepare for a fire
- Test smoke alarms once a month and replace batteries twice a year. Make it a habit when you reset your clocks for Daylight Saving Time.
- Replace your smoke alarms once every 10 years.
- Plan and review your home escape routes with your family. Practice getting out of each room.
- Check that windows are not nailed or painted shut. If you have security gratings or burglar bars on windows, make sure they have a fire safety opening feature and can be easily opened from the inside.
- Think about getting escape ladders if your home has more than one level.
- Teach your family to stay low to the floor (where the air is safer) when getting away from a fire.
- Put A-B-C-type fire extinguishers in your home and teach family members how to use them.
- Put heaters at least three feet away from anything that could catch fire. Be very careful when using temporary heating sources like space heaters.
- Close your bedroom door at night. It lessens the effects of toxic smoke and heat, and helps stop the spread of flames.
- Make sure your home is insured. If you rent, consider buying renter’s insurance.
