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START
WITH A PLAN |
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Many fire deaths occur because the victim did not know
how to get out of their burning home safely. Don't wait for an emergency to locate fire
exits and escape routes -- by then it may be too late. |
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 Make a
list of all possible exits from your home, and check that they are all accessible and
clear of obstacles. For example, see that windows are not bolted or painted shut. |
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Draw a
simple floor plan of your house, indicating all windows and doors. Locate two exits from
each bedroom. In most cases, this means that a window may serve as an emergency exit. Mark
all primary and alternate exits on the plan.
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Go
over the plan and rules of survival with each family member, and walk everyone through the
escape routes. Can everyone reach and operate latches, bolts, and locks? Climb out
windows? |
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Agree
on a predesignated outside meeting place and make sure the entire family knows to go their
immediately after escaping from a fire. This way, you can account for everybody and make
sure everyone has made it out safely. Include this location on your plan and mark it with
a large X. |
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Tack
up the plan on a bulletin board or refrigerator door where family members, visitors, and
babysitters will see it easily and frequently. Write the fire department number on it in
large red numerals. In Commerce Township, and in most other areas, this emergency number
is 911. Please check with your local fire department to know what their emergency number
is. |
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Consider buying portable escape ladders for bedrooms on second and third floors. |
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Remember "EDITH", meaning "Exit Drill In The Home". Call a family fire
drill at least once every six months and include even young children in discussions. Try
to plan a few fire drills for the middle of the night, since this is when most fires
occur. |
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