Fire Escape Plans For Your Home or Business

10/9/2019 (Permalink)

It's officially the month of October, which means it's Fire Prevention Month. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) sets aside one designated week each October to focus on fire prevention. The 2019 theme of Fire Prevention Month is "Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!" During this week, you should take the time to evaluate your fire escape plans. According to the NFPA, once the fire alarm goes off, "you could have less than one to two minutes to escape safely!"

Fire experts agree; once a fire starts, you may have as little as two minutes to escape a burning home or business. Creating, developing, implementing, and practicing a fire escape plan in your home and office can make the difference between safety and tragedy. To create a successful escape plan first, draw a map of each level of your home or business. Be sure to include all the doors and windows in your drawing. Next, identify two ways out to get out of each room. Ensure all doors and windows that lead to outside open easily. Designate an outside meeting place that is a safe distance in front of your home or business, mark the location of the meeting area on your escape plan. Be sure to plan for everyone in your home or office, with special consideration for elderly or disabled individuals. Practice your fire escape plan at least twice a year.