Hints from Heloise

Dear Heloise: In case of a fire, understanding how the fire extinguisher works before an emergency is very important. You can buy two extinguishers and have every family member practice with one until everyone knows how to work them properly.

Other hints in a fire emergency:

•Baking soda can be used to put out a fire.

•Place the correct lid on the pot to smother the flames. If the lid is too small, it doesn’t work, and if it is too big, the fire will curl under and around it.

•If it is safe to turn off the vent fan over the stove, do so. The vent may suck the fire into the attic and cause the fire to spread.

•A window may be closer than a door. If so, teach your children to use the window if a fire breaks out and have a designated area away from the house for everyone to meet.

•Using a cordless phone allows you to get out of the house while making the call.

– Janet L., via e-mail