Home
Fire Escape Plan
If a fire does occur in your home, you may have only seconds to save
your life. Having a home fire escape plan helps you to avoid panic and assure
that your loved ones react properly. A real home fire is not like we see on TV.
The smoke will be thick and choking. You will not be able to see and may become
disoriented. Fire can explosively grow and effectively block your escape.
Unfortunately, people may also be trapped by burglar bars and key operated
deadbolt locks.
-
Organize a step-by-step plan for fire escape and review it with
your family.
-
Have two ways out of every room in your house. In an apartment
above the second floor, know the location of both fire stairs.
-
Make sure everyone can operate all locks and open all doors,
windows and burglar bars that secure exit-ways.
Keep keys close by to unlock key operated locks.
-
Make sure everyone knows to stay low in smoke. Crawl as fast as
possible to the exit.
-
Have a meeting place outside to be sure everyone is safe. Be sure
everyone knows that they are not to go back inside for anything.
-
If anyone becomes trapped in a fire, be sure they know to keep
doors closed to hold back smoke and fire. Stuff bedclothes or other material
into cracks and vents to keep smoke out. Hang a sheet or other object out of
the window to signal fire fighters.
-
Using your smoke detector test button to activate the alarm
signal, have everyone practice your plan.
-
Be sure everyone knows how to dial for help (most often 9-1-1). Do
not delay calling the fire department, even if the fire is small or if there
is only an odor of smoke.
