Fire SafetyNATCEP Day Eight

Objectives

• Describe potential causes of fires in LTCFs• Identify measures that should be taken to

prevent fires in a LTCF• Identify actions to take when a fire is

discovered• Identify examples of hazardous conditions

that should be reported for correction• Name devices that are used or activated

when a fire occurs in an LTCF• Understand proper use of a fire

extinguisher

Causes of Fire in the LTFC• Smoking/inappropriate use of

matches or lighters• Misuse of electricity• Incorrect disposal of trash• Improper storage of flammable

materials

Common Locations of Fire

• Smoking area• Waste Baskets• Kitchen• Laundry

Preventing Fires from Smoking

• Follow smoking rules!• Supervise residents while smoking.• Smoke in designated areas only.• Use large, deep ashtrays• Empty ashtrays into fire proof

containers. • Use smoker’s apron per

resident plan of care and/or facility policy.

Preventing Electrical Fires

• Unplug, label items “out of service” – report to the nurse & maintenance.

• Never use a defective outlet – report!• Never use frayed cords - report!• Never use extension cords or

overload outlets.• Do not switch an electric razor off or

on while oxygen is in use.

Preventing Fires from Oxygen Use• Open flames or smoking not

allowed in room with oxygen in use.

• Take measures to prevent static electricity.

• Electrical safety measures must be observed.

Action Steps when Fire is Discovered

Actions to take when Fire is Discovered• Follow the LTCF’s emergency

plan. –Know floor plan of facility–Know exit route– Location of pull box alarm, fire

extinguisher and fire hose–How to report fire– Facility plan and the NA’s role in

plan

Devices Used or Activated• Pull Box• Sprinkler System• Smoke Detector• Fire Alarms/Strobe Lights• Fire Doors• Fire Extinguishers: ABC

REMEMBER

• Never use elevators during fire alarm

• Leave room lights on for better visibility

• Clear hallways of carts, residents, etc.

• Evacuate ambulatory residents first

Fire Extinguisher

• Pull (the pin)• Aim (at the base of the fire)• Squeeze (the trigger)• Sweep (from side to side)