Chapter 11 Promoting Children’s Safety Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 211 Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors at least once each month to make sure they are working. If smoke detectors are battery powered, change batteries when indicated. Most states require smoke alarms and CO detectors to be hardwired into the electrical system. Carbon monoxide and smoke detectors should be installed and maintained in the center. Carbon monoxide is known as a silent killer. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Symptoms include drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness. A sound, beep or chirp will sound when the detector is activated. Fire Extinguishers Each child care center needs several fi re extinguishers. One fi re extinguisher should be placed in or next to the kitchen. Place an extinguisher in or near each classroom and in the laundry area. Check your state’s licensing regulations and insurance company’s recommendations for the placement of fi re extinguishers. The director is often in charge of buying fi re extinguishers for the center. Most states require early childhood facilities to use the ABC type of fi re extinguisher. Before buying extinguishers, Figure 11.5 Fire Safety Checklist Yes No 1. Exit passageways and exits are free from furniture and equipment. 2. Locks on bathroom and toilet stall doors can be opened from the outside and can be opened easily by center staff. 3. Protective covers are on all electrical outlets. 4. Permanent wiring is used instead of lengthy extension cords. 5. Each wall outlet contains no more than two electrical appliances. 6. A fire evacuation plan is posted. 7. Fire drills are conducted at least monthly, some of which are unannounced. 8. Flammable, combustible, and other dangerous materials (including hand sanitizers) are marked and stored in areas accessible only to staff. 9. Children are restricted to floors with grade level exits (no stairs). 10. The basement door is kept closed. 11. There is no storage under stairs. 12. Smoke detectors are placed in each room and checked regularly. 13. Smoke alarms, fire alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and emergency lighting are checked at least once a month. 14. Matches are kept out of the reach of children. 15. Toys, chairs, tables, and other equipment are made of flame-retardant materials. 16. Carpets and rugs are treated with a flame-retardant material. 17. Emergency procedures and numbers are posted by each telephone. 18. Evacuation cribs fit easily through the doors. 19. Carbon monoxide (CO) detectors are placed outside of sleeping areas.