Bathroom - FDNY Fire Zone

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	How can a fire start in a bathroom? In several ways: first, it's a room where both water and electricity are used. Second, it's a room where candles are often burning.


		If candles are lit, is someone remaining in the room with them at all times? Burning candles are often left alone in bathrooms—and never should be! Do the lit candles have plenty of room around them? They should be kept well away from towels, washcloths, toilet paper and blowing curtains. The use of candles for aroma therapy can be hazardous. The scent of lavender candles cause relaxation and sleepiness... something undesirable with candles burning. Are any matches being stored well out of the reach of children? Matches should be stored on a high shelf, in an air-tight container, away from sources of heat or other chemicals that could cause fire. Are used matches being extinguished in water before they're being thrown away? The paper in a waste-basket could easily ignite from a match that still has a glowing ember.


		Do all the electrical outlets in the bathroom contain Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI)? This means they immediately shut off if they're overloaded—which they will be if they get splashed with water. You can tell a GFCI by the small "reset" button on the front. Ask an adult to help—every bathroom outlet needs a GFCI. A portable therapeutic whirlpool unit can be a real shock hazard if not connected to a GFCI. Always consult a qualified electrician before using one of these units. Are there hair dryers, curling irons or heated hair curlers plugged in when not in use? They should be unplugged to avoid a fire or shock injury. Are there a lot of cords plugged into one outlet? If so, the wires might be working too hard. Distribute what's plugged in to other outlets in the room... or plug in fewer things! Do any of the cords or plugs feel hot? If so, they might be too thin to handle what they're being asked to do. Appliances that demand a lot of electricity, like curling irons and hair dryers, need a thick, insulated cord. Are any of the cords worn or frayed? If so, they should be replaced. Are any of the cords running beneath rugs or near towels? If so, change their route, so the hot cord doesn't ignite the fabric.

Who knew? Things don't even need to be touching a space heater to catch on fire!

I was choking and gagging from the smoke... but I knew I had to let someone know where I was!