National Fire Prevention Week is coming to a close. When a fire starts in your home, you have as little as two minutes to escape; that is not much time to protect yourself or your loved ones. It is crucial to have a fire safety plan, install smoke alarms on every level of your home, and test your smoke alarms monthly.
If you do not have a fire safety plan, here are some pointers for creating one for you and your family.
- Identify two escape routes for each room of your home and make sure everyone knows how to exit if needed. For example, if it is a second-story window, install or have a fire escape ladder available.
- Ensure everyone knows that smoke is dangerous and evacuate the home by walking or crawling low; smoke rises.
- Discuss the importance of exiting quickly and not grabbing possessions or going back inside for items; belongings can be replaced. This is why homeowners and renters insurance is so important.
- Identify a meeting spot outside where the family will gather once you have exited the home.
- Run a drill and practice
Safety.org is an excellent resource for developing a plan, creating fire drill days for children, and more. You can never be too safe.