Make a Fire Escape Plan

Fire is a leading cause of preventable deaths in the home; but by being prepared to handle this emergency, you can help your family safely exit your home in the event of a fire. Fire safety and survival begins with everyone in your household being prepared. In the year studied, The State of Home Safety in America™ report found that only 54 percent of families with children have discussed what to do in case of a home fire

In the event of a fire, remember - time is the biggest enemy and every second counts!

Escape plans help you get out of your home quickly.

In less than 30 seconds a small flame can get completely out of control and turn into a major fire.

It only takes minutes for a house to fill with thick black smoke and become engulfed in flames.

Things of Importance

  • Practice escape plans every month.
  • Plan two ways out of each room.
  • Immediately leave your home when a fire occurs.
  • Never open doors that are hot to the touch.
  • Designate a meeting location away from your home.
  • Once you're out, stay out!

 

Practice Escaping from Every Room in the Home

Practice escape plans every month.

The best plans have two ways to get out of each room.

If the primary way is blocked by fire or smoke, you will need a second way out.

A secondary route might be a window onto an adjacent roof or using an Underwriter's Laboratory (UL) approved collapsible ladder for escape from upper story windows.

Make sure that windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out quickly and that security bars can be properly opened.

Also, practice feeling your way out of the house in the dark or with your eyes closed

 

Immediately Leave the Home

When a fire occurs, do not waste any time saving property.

Take the safest exit route, but if you must escape through smoke, remember to crawl low, under the smoke and keep your mouth covered.

The smoke contains toxic gases which can disorient you or, at worst, overcome you.

 

Designate a Meeting Place Outside and Take Attendance

Designate a meeting location away from the home, but not necessarily across the street. For example, meet under a specific tree or at the end of the driveway or front sidewalk to make sure everyone has gotten out safely and no one will be hurt looking for someone who is already safe.

Designate one person to go to a neighbor's home to phone the fire department.

 

Once Out, Stay Out

Remember to escape first and then notify the fire department using the 911 system or proper local emergency number in your area.

Never go back into a burning building for any reason.

Teach children not to hide from firefighters.

If someone is missing, tell the firefighters. They are equipped to perform rescues safely.

 

 

Source: Firesafety.gov