Seconds count during a home fire. Having an escape plan and practicing it can make a difference should a fire occur.
Every September, Seattle-area students practice fire drills at school to make sure students and staff know what to do when the fire alarm sounds. Yet, most families do not think to hold a fire drill at home where the likelihood of experiencing a fire is much greater. The good news is that it is very easy to make a home fire escape plan and to practice one.
Here is how to make a home fire escape plan
Home Fire Drill
After making a home fire escape plan, make sure to practice it by holding a home fire drill.
Make sure everyone knows where the outside meeting place is located and to call 9-1-1 after getting outside.
If a fire starts at home, make sure do the following:
- Fire spreads quickly. Get out fast and stay out.
- If possible, close doors to confine the fire.
- If you encounter smoke, crawl under it to your exit.
- Go to the outside meeting place and call 9-1-1 as quickly as possible.
- Once out, stay out. Never go back inside a burning building.
More fire escape planning materials from the National Fire Protection Association