From EJF Real Estate and Property Management

Fire Prevention

Smoke Detectors

• Test the smoke detector(s) in your unit monthly, Replace batteries every six (6) months, and replace smoke detectors within ten (10) years. 

• If you hear a faulty smoke detector beeping anywhere in the building, notify management immediately. 

Evacuation 

• Know your building's evacuation procedures and familiarize yourself with all available exits.  

• Practice evacuating your unit and building. During an actual fire, smoke may severely limit visibility. Practice knowing your way out without relying on clear visibility.

• Keep emergency numbers readily available.

Fire Extinguishers 

• Know the location of fire extinguishers on your floor and familiarize yourself with the instructions for using a fire extinguisher before an emergency occurs. They are on every floor,  both levels of the garage, and in the office.  

• Only attempt to use a fire extinguisher if the fire is small, you have a clear exit, and you can do so safely.

Keeping Your Home Safe

• Never use your stove or oven to heat your unit. If additional heat is needed, use only an appropriately rated portable heater and follow the manufacturer's safety instructions. Keep heaters away from curtains, bedding, furniture, and other combustible materials.

• Do not store combustible materials in enclosed areas or near heat sources.  Keep the kitchen stove and s1.:1rrounding area clean and free of combustible materials such as bags, boxes, paper, and towels.

• Inspect electrical cords and wiring regularly. Replace frayed, cracked, or damaged cords immediately.  

• Do not overload electrical outlets, power strips, or extension cords.   Electrical outlets should have properly installed cover plates with no exposed wiring.   Keep electrical cords away from high-traffic areas and do not place cords under rugs or furniture where they may become damaged.

• Sleep with bedroom doors closed whenever possible. A closed door can help slow the spread of smoke and fire. 

• Maintain Good Housekeeping.  Good housekeeping is one of the most effective ways to help prevent fires. Keep hallways, doorways, closets, utility areas, and living spaces free of unnecessary clutter and combustible materials. Do not block exits, stairwells, fire doors, or other areas needed for emergency access.

• Follow the building's important regulations about safety on balconies, here. Improper disposal of cigarettes or any flammable materials is a serious violation and direct threat to resident's safety and the property.

If a Fire Occurs 

If You Can Exit your Unit

• Get Out Safely. DO NOT USE THE ELEVATOR.  Use the stairs. 

• Follow the building's evacuation procedures. Leave the building as quickly and safely as possible. 

• Watch for smoke:

  • • If there is no smoke in the hallway and your door is not hot, open the door slowly and carefully.  If possible, cover your nose and mouth with a cloth to help reduce exposure to smoke and fumes. Stay low to the ground when moving through a smoke-filled area. 

    • If smoke is present, stay low to the ground to reduce exposure.

    • If there is heavy smoke in the hallway, do not enter the hallway. Close your door and remain inside your unit while awaiting assistance.

If the Fire is Inside Your Unit

• Evacuate immediately and call 911 from a safe location outside the unit.

• If a small cooking fire occurs, turn off the heat if it is safe to do so and cover the pan with a lid. Never pour water on a grease fire.

• If your smoke detector is going off for a nonemergency, such as burnt toast, email EJF immediately. 

If You Cannot Exit Your Unit

• If smoke is entering beneath your door or your door feels hot, DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR.

  • • Close and secure the door.

    •  Place wet towels or cloths along the bottom of the door to help limit smoke from entering.

    • If possible, open a window for fresh air.

    • Signal for help from the window so emergency personnel can identify your location.

    • Call 911 when it is safe to do so and provide your exact unit location.

After A Fire

• Do not re-enter your unit until it has been determined safe by emergency personnel or authorized building personnel.

• Document damaged personal property.

• Contact your homeowner/renter's insurance company as soon as possible. 

• Discard food that has been exposed to heat, smoke, soot or contaminated water.

Power Outages

Be Prepared

• Residents are encouraged to maintain an emergency supply kit containing: 

  • • Flashlights and extra batteries

    • Battery-operated radio and extra batteries

    • FIrst Aid kit

    • At least one week's supply of food, including items that do not requir refrigeration or cooking

    • Non-electric can opener

    • At least one week's supply of prescription medications

    • Fire extinguisher

    • Extra phone battery pack

• During winter power outages, dress warmly and remain indoors whenever possible.  Keep doors and windows closed to retain heat. 

• Battery operated candles are highly recomended. Any use of wax candles is strongly discouraged--and they MUST be monitored at all times.  

Gas Leaks

If the Odor is Weak

• Move to a safe location and contact Washington Gas at 703-750-7520.

If the Odor is Strong or You Hear Hissing

• Leave your unit and vacate the area immediately. 

• Do not light a match, use a ligher, smoke or create any open flame. 

• Do not perate electrical switches appliances, or other equipment if doing so could create a spark. 

• Do not attempt to locate the source of the leak. 

• If it is safe to do so, leave your unit door unlocked as you exit so emergency personnel can enter. 

• Once you are safely outside the affecgted area, call 911 and report the emergency. 

• Notify the Richmond management/front desk staff from a safe location so buildng emergency procedures can be initiatited. 

• Do not return to the affected area until it is determined safe by emergency personnel or the appropriate utility officials.