5 Tips for Your Home Fire Escape Plan

2/1/2021 (Permalink)

Making a fire escape plan now can save lives later

Here Are Five Things To Consider In Your Plan

When did you last think about a fire escape plan for your home? In the rush of moving to a new home or keeping up with your kids' schedules, this may be the last thing on your mind. However, it's important for every home to have a plan in the case of an emergency.

1. Escape Routes for All
Each member of your household needs to have their own escape plan. Consider any barriers that may keep you from accessing your escape route. Do any of your windows or doors have bars? Are there any barricades or locks? What will you do if you need to escape from a higher-story window? Ensure that each person can complete their exit strategy independently.

2. Fire Safety Review
Talk to your family about how to safely crawl beneath smoke, how to check doors for danger before going through them, and what to do if they are trapped inside. You can also discuss the importance of getting out quickly and remind everyone, especially small children, that firefighters are there to help.

3. Family Meeting Spot
Where will your family meet to ensure that everyone is out safely? Identify this spot by actually going there. Emphasize the importance of staying at that spot until help arrives.

4. Exit Strategy Practice
While many people have a fire escape plan, fewer have practiced them. Practicing may seem silly, but you may make important discoveries during a run-through that you wouldn't want to make during a fire, such as finding a window that jams.

5. After Fire Preparation
The final part of your emergency escape plan should include what you will do after a fire. Where will you stay? Which fire mitigation professional will you call to restore your home? Thinking about these things now will lessen the burden during a crisis.
Making a fire escape plan now can save lives later, and you will have peace of mind knowing that you're helping to keep your family safe.