Every home should have a Fire Escape Plan and family members should practice their
plan together at least once a year. This may sound silly but, time
and time again, it has proven to save lives.
Below are a few recommendations and tips to remember:
Plan Ahead
- Install smoke detectors and change their batteries twice a year. (Remember
to spring forward, fall back)
- Make a Fire Escape Plan (it's too late to make a plan once a fire
has begun).
- Close bedroom doors when sleeping (it takes approximately 10 to 15
minutes for a fire to burn down a wood door).
A Fire Escape Plan should be written down and posted in your house
with a copy given to each person. When creating your Fire Escape Plan
remember to include the following:
Everyone should know 2 ways out. That would include each room and
the house. If a way out includes windows, everyone should practice opening
the window. Any window not in working order should be fixed. Let every
family member know that it is O.K. to break the window if necessary and
show them how to safely break glass (use a blanket or towel to lay over
the frame to help prevent cuts when you climb out).
All family members should understand smoke and its dangers. Most
fires in the home release very toxic smoke. It is therefore very important
to teach everyone that smoke rises and they should crawl when the room
is filled with smoke. In addition, test all doors before opening them.
Feel the door to see if it or the door knob is hot. If it is then use
the second escape route out of the room.
A very important addition to a Fire Escape Plan should be the Meeting
Location Place. Once out of the house, all family members should gather
at one central meeting place. When a fire breaks out things can get confusing
very fast. If each family member knows where to go after exiting the house
this will help to identify if a family member may still be inside the
home. Please note, do not attempt to return to the home to save a pet.
Many people have died doing so.
Remember to provide for family members who may require special assistance
in exiting the home in the event of a fire. This may include disabled
family members, infants and young children. Small children usually go
to closets or under beds when they are afraid. Make sure they understand
not to hide. Get the children out before you exit since they may become
scared and decide not to follow you.
This may seem like a lot to remember, which is why it is very important
to implement your Fire Escape Plan and practice it often.
