Developing a Fire Escape Plan

According to the Home Safety Council, fire is a leading cause of preventable deaths in the home. But by developing a fire escape plan for your family, you can help your family safely exit your home in the event of a fire.

• Make sure there are smoke alarms on every level of your home.
• Test smoke alarms every month.
• Make a fire escape plan for your family, and make sure everyone is familiar with it.
• Check to make sure windows and doorways open easily.
• If you have security bars on doors and windows, have a “quick-release” latch.
• Find two ways out of every room – the door and maybe the window.
• Select two escape routes from each room and mark them clearly on the plan.
• Be sure to plan for children and the elderly who may need assistance escaping a fire.
• Designate a meeting place in front of your home.
• Practice makes perfect.
• Young children might sleep through the sound of a smoke alarm. Be prepared for a family member to wake children for fire drills and in a real emergency