Five Tips for Creating a Fire Safety Plan

 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.

1.  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.
2.  Ensure everyone knows that smoke is dangerous and evacuate the home by walking or crawling low; smoke rises.
3.  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. 
4.  Identify a meeting spot outside where the family will gather once you have exited the home. 
5.  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.