Exit Drills In The Home

Knowing what to do before a fire occurs can save you and your family’s lives. Develop a fire escape plan for your family today. The entire family should be involved in the planning of a home fire escape plan. Here are some tips to initiate an effective escape plan.

DEVELOP:

·        Draw a floor plan of your home.

·        Find two exits from every room.

·        Remember that windows can be used as emergency exits.

·        Designate a meeting place at a safe distance outside your home.

·        It is very important to stay out after exiting the home. NEVER GO BACK INSIDE!

PRACTICE AND ACTIVATE THE PLAN:  

·        When you hear the smoke detector, do not sit up in bed, stay low, get out of your bed, and safely crawl to the door.

·        Feel the door and the doorknob with the back of your hand before you open it.

·        If the door is not hot, open the door slowly.

·        If it is safe to leave the room, get below the smoke and get out by the safest and quickest route.

·        If thick smoke or hot gases come into the room when you open the door, quickly close the door and use a second exit.

·        If the door is hot, do not open it and then try your second exit.  Remember windows can be used for an emergency exit, if it is safe to do so.

·        Meet at your designated meeting place.

·        Once you’re out, STAY OUT!

·        Go to a neighbor’s house and call 911.

·        If you can’t get out of the home, place a towel or clothing at the bottom of the door. Do not hide!  Remain calm, make some noise, and wave something out or by the window.

Exit Drills In The Home

Your family should practice the drill once per month when you test your smoke detectors.  Make sure everyone knows the exits out of the home.  Teach your children how to open the windows and screens safely and if it is a safe exit to get out. Everyone should know the meeting place.

Have a safe and joyous day, compliments of the White River Township Fire Department