Do You Have a Fire Escape Plan?

The time to decide on having a fire escape plan is BEFORE you need to utilize one. Even if there are no children in your home, but especially if there are, it is vitally important to have an established plan should your home catch fire; and then practice it at least twice a year.

First, make a map of your home.

•Draw out each room and mark each window and every door. Encourage your children to tour the house taking notes along the way.

Second, establish two exits from every room, if possible, then make sure that each of those escape routes can be used safely by everyone.

•Move furniture that may be blocking doors or windows.

•Ensure that windows are not painted or nailed shut.

Third, choose an outside meeting place (i.e. neighbor’s house, a light post, mailbox, or stop sign) a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they’ve escaped.

•Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan.

•Tell guests or visitors to your home about your family’s fire escape plan.

•When staying overnight at other people’s homes, ask about their escape plan.

This is especially important when children are permitted to attend “sleepovers” at friends’ homes.

Fourth, once you’re out, STAY OUT! Under no circumstances should you ever go back into a burning building. If someone is missing, inform the fire department dispatcher when you call. Firefighters have the skills and equipment to perform rescues.

A few things to know and practice are:

•Crawling low to the floor to avoid toxic smoke.

•Closing doors on your way out to help slow the spread of fire, giving more time to safely escape. If a closed door is hot, do NOT open it.

•Stop, drop, & roll if clothes catch on fire.

•How to call 9-1-1 to get help

If the fire prevents you from escaping, here are some tips…

•Use duct tape or towels to seal the door cracks and cover air vents to help keep smoke from coming in.

•If possible, open your windows at the top and bottoms so fresh air can get in.

•Call for help, or if you don’t have a phone try using a whistle to alert neighbors.

•Wave a flashlight or light-colored cloth at the window to let the fire department know where you are located.