Can You Get Out Fast Enough

11/21/2019 (Permalink)

Fire experts agree, people have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home before it’s too late to get out. In a matter of moments a small flame can become a major fire, making it critical to be prepared and have an escape plan in place. A survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows only 26% of families have developed a fire escape plan. Once a plan is in place it is critical that everyone in the home understands the plan. The best way to do this is by practicing the escape plan at least twice a year. Increase your chance of surviving a fire by ensuring you have working smoke detectors in place. There should be a smoke detector in each bedroom and at least 1 on each floor. Practice your escape plan keeping in mind where, in your home, fires would most likely occur.

The following are a few suggestions to help you develop an emergency escape plan. 

Draw a map of each level of your home and show all doors and windows. Find two ways to get out of each room. Make sure all doors and windows that lead outside open easily, and can provide exit to the ground.

Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second and third floors. Only purchase collapsible escape ladders evaluated by a recognized testing laboratory. Store them near the window where they will be used.

Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they have escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the planned meeting space on your map.

 Teach children how to escape on their own in case you cannot help them. Make special considerations for everyone in your home with special needs such as the elderly or disabled individuals.

Practice your fire escape plan during the day and when it is dark and the power is off.