A Fire Escape Plan for Safety

Get Out Safe

There is an estimated 3,500 people who die each and every year from fires, and there is also an estimated 18,300 people who suffer minor or severe injuries. Deaths that happen in some cases are avoidable.

Have an Effective Plan

In the case there is a fire in the home one of your largest and worst enemies is time. This is really where every second counts and you should know how to get out of your home in a matter of seconds. Your home can catch on fire in a matter of seconds and one small flame can turn your home into one large blaze of flames. Your home can be one large black cloud of smoke in a matter of minutes.

Essential:

• Leave doors shut; especially when they are hot to touch
• Never go back into a burning building
• Develop a place to meet the family once you are out
• Once fire happens, get out right away
• Know of at least 2 escape methods per room
• Practice escape routes at least monthly

Practice Getting Out of Each Room

You should always practice at least once a month. You should plan at least two ways out of each room if possible. You need a way to get out in the case that the door cannot be opened. This can be a window or an attic space. This can also be an attic that offers Underwriter’s Laboratory ladders that are collapsible. Always ensure that windows are never jammed and keep them loose and able to be opened as well. You should also be able to walk outside your home with your eyes shut.

Security Bars Have Certain Precautions

These bars are designed to keep the family safe, but in a fire they can prevent you from getting out a window. Learn if the bars have a quick release button in the case of an emergency. Also, educate the rest of the family so they know as well how to open these barred doors and windows.

Leave Your Home Right Away

When you notice a fire, leave the house right away and do not go back inside for anything. Get out the safest way possible and if you find that you need to go out the way the smoke is, crawl on the ground and cover your mouth. Toxic gases in the smoke can cause you to be disoriented.

Eliminate Opening Doors That Are Hot

If you notice a door is hot to touch, never open it. This is because there is most likely flames on the other side. You should test a door out by using the back side of your hand and touch the door, the knob, as well as the cracks of the door to ensure it’s not hot. If it is not, you can open it. Use caution and use your shoulder to brace the door.

Have a Meeting Place

You should always have a meeting place outside for the entire family to meet. This can make sure that everyone got out safely. This can be someplace like the end of your driveway or even in the neighbor’s yard. You should also have one person make a call to firefighters.

Once You Are Out, Stay Out!

Always keep in mind that you should never go back into a burning house or building once you have escaped. This is because fires can spread fast and while there was not fire in one place, it may be there now or when you go back in. children should be taught to not hide from rescue professionals.

Important:

Make sure that your smoke alarms are working properly as well. This can help alarm everyone and can ensure that everyone gets out and is safe. Make sure batteries are checked regularly as well. Replace your smoke alarm every 10 years to ensure they are working properly.