On the average, a home fire in the U.S. breaks out once every 52 seconds. Unfortunately, many families are not prepared to take calm, appropriate action if a fire does strike in their home. That's why it is necessary for everyone to design and practice a fire escape plan with their family. Making a plan and holding regular fire drills will give each household member the confidence and knowledge to act quickly in an emergency. Here then are some tips on developing a family escape plan:

1. Sketch a layout of each floor, including windows, doors, and stairways. Go over the plan with family members and post it in your home as a reminder of all possible exits. Keep the phone number of the Fire Department handy by the phone.


2. Have family members practice different escape routes (at least two per room). Fire drills also teach children that they must escape, not hide from fire.


3. Place one family member in charge of helping the elderly or the very young to escape.


4. Agree on a meeting place outside the home and instruct everyone to go there in case of fire. Discuss why you shouldn't go back inside once you're out. (People have died returning to a burning building).


5. Determine a meeting place:
   
   
   • A safe distance from the home for emergencies concerning the house
   
   
   • A safe distance from the neighborhood for larger emergencies where it is not safe to stay in the neighborhood
   
   
6. Have an out of area contact for friends and relatives to call


7. Practice the escape plan with all members of the household twice a year

Don't wait for smoke and fire to surprise you!