According to a recent study done by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), about 50% of Americans do not have a fire escape plan and out of those that do, 25% have not practiced it. Which is why they have decided that this year’s theme for Fire Prevention Week is “Every Second Counts: Plan 2 Ways Out”. Many families have a plan for emergencies but what happens when plan A doesn’t work out? Having a plan B for escape will save you valuable time in the event of an emergency. If you don’t have an escape plan, this is the perfect time to draw one up! Now is the best time, take advantage of Home Fire Drill Day on Saturday October 14, 2017!
- Draw a map of your home with all your household members and mark 2 exits from each room and a path to the outside from each exit.
- Practice your escape plan at least twice a year. Fire drills should be performed during the day and at night.
- Children should learn how to escape on their own if they cannot get to a parent.
- Remember to close doors behind you as you leave. This can slow the spread of smoke, fire and heat.
- Never go back inside a burning building.
- Remember to always have a fully charged fire extinguisher in your home.
Learn more about fire extinguisher maintenance & safety on our blog!