FACTS
--According to an NFPA survey, only one of every three American households have actually developed and practiced a home fire escape plan.
--While 71% of Americans have an escape plan in case of a fire, only 47% of those have practiced it.
--One third of American households who made an estimate thought they would have at least 6 minutes before a fire in their home would become life-threatening. The time available is often less. And only 8% said their first thought on hearing a smoke alarm would be to get out!
SAFETY TIPS
--MAKE a home escape plan. Draw a map of your home showing all doors and windows. Discuss the plan with everyone in your home.
--KNOW at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily.
--HAVE an outside meeting place (like a tree, light pole, or mailbox) a safe distance from the home where everyone should meet.
--PRACTICE your home fire drill at night and during the day with everyone in your home, twice a year.
--TEACH children how to escape on their own in case you can't help them.
--CLOSE doors behind you as you leave.
IF THE ALARM SOUNDS
--If the smoke alarm sounds, GET OUT AND STAY OUT. Never go back inside for people or pets.
--If you have to escape through smoke, GET LOW AND GO under the smoke to your way out.
--Call the fire department from outside your home.
All information has been referenced from the NFPA Public Education Division. To view this website go to www.nfpa.org/education or you can click above on Departments, then Fire Department, then Useful Links, and the National Fire Protection Agency.