Fire Safety - The importance of an escape plan

To make sure that your family can evacuate the building as quickly as possible, choose the easiest route of escape. It also makes sense to choose the route you normally exit the home by. Make sure that the escape route is clear of obstacles, as it could be very dark when you need to implement the escape plan. Always keep a torch next to your bed in case you need to escape during the night, and it is also important to plan an alternative route, if your primary route is inaccessible.

Always make sure you leave the keys to the door and windows in a safe place that everyone knows. Keys should be left in the same place every night, and all members of your family should be able to access them and know how to use them.

If the worst happens and you are unable to evacuate the building, you need to all take refuge in a safe room within your home. Make sure that you call the fire brigade immediately and inform them which room you are in.

It is crucial to ensure that everyone learns the escape plan and knows it off-by-heart. It is also a good idea to write the instructions on paper and make sure everyone has a copy in their room.

Once your escape plan has been devised and taught to the family, it is a greaat idea to have a practice run with your whole family to make sure everyone knows the process. Don't worry if people get it wrong, this is the perfect time to make mistakes. Treat it as a game so young children can also get involved and enjoy the process. This will help them to retain it in their memory better. For added effect, carry it out in the evening when there is little light.

Devising and practicing your escape plan is a crucial component of fire safety plan. Teaching and practising it with your family members will improve all of your chances of escaping should the worst happen and raise awareness about the importance of fire safety.

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