Plan a Fire Escape Routes

When a fire starts, it can grow and spread very fast. The people inside have only a few short minutes to get to safety. There is no time to stop for anything - not for valuables or pets. The most important thing is for you and your family to get to safety make a fire escape plan for your home. Draw it on paper. Talk with your family about the best ways to get outside quickly. Choose a meeting place that is outside and in front of your home. Everyone should go to this place if there is a fire.

Practice fire drills with your family.
Then everyone will know how to get out if there is a fire. When you draw your plan make sure each person in your family:

• Knows two ways to get out of every room
• Can open all doors and windows easily
• Knows where to meet outside

If you live in an block of flats get to know all of the ways to get out fast. If it is a large building, know the sound of the fire alarm. You should also know the plan for getting everyone out of your building. Ask your local fire department to hold an emergency fire drill to help you and others to practice the escape plan for your building.

Have family fire drills.
Have at least two family fire drills every year. Practice your escape during the day and the night.

Start the drill by pushing the "test button" on one of your smoke alarms.

You need more than one way out. If fire or smoke is in your way, you should use your other exit, maybe a window. Practice what to do if there is smoke: "Get low and go". Crawl below the smoke and go to your exit.

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