Home fire escape plans

Seconds count during a home fire. Having an escape plan and practicing it can make a difference should a fire occur.

Every September, Seattle-area students practice fire drills at school to make sure students and staff know what to do when the fire alarm sounds. Yet, most families do not think to hold a fire drill at home where the likelihood of experiencing a fire is much greater. The good news is that it is very easy to make a home fire escape plan and to practice one.

Here is how to make a home fire escape plan

Home Fire Drill

After making a home fire escape plan, make sure to practice it by holding a home fire drill.

Make sure everyone knows where the outside meeting place is located and to call 9-1-1 after getting outside.

If a fire starts at home, make sure do the following:

1. Fire spreads quickly. Get out fast and stay out. 

2. If possible, close doors to confine the fire. 

3. If you encounter smoke, crawl under it to your exit. 

4. Go to the outside meeting place and call 9-1-1 as quickly as possible.

5. Once out, stay out. Never go back inside a burning building. 

More fire escape planning materials from the National Fire Protection Association