Have a Home Fire Escape Plan — It Could Save Your Life
When a fire starts, you may have less than two minutes to safely escape your home. That’s why having a well-thought-out home fire escape plan—and practicing it regularly—is one of the most important things you can do to protect your family.
Why Planning Matters
Fires move fast. Smoke can fill a home in moments, making it hard to see and breathe. When the alarm sounds, there’s no time to stop and think about what to do. A practiced escape plan ensures that every member of your household knows exactly how to get out and where to go.
Steps to Create Your Escape Plan
- Draw a map of your home showing all doors and windows.
- Identify two ways out of every room, if possible.
- Make sure all exits are clear and windows open easily.
- Choose an outside meeting place a safe distance from your home—like a mailbox, tree, or neighbor’s driveway.
- Test your smoke alarms monthly to make sure they work.
- Practice your plan at least twice a year, both during the day and at night.
Include Everyone
Make sure children, older adults, and anyone with mobility or hearing challenges are included in your plan. Assign someone to help them get out safely. Pets are family too—consider how you’ll safely remove them, but never go back inside for them once you’re out.
Once You’re Out, Stay Out
If a fire occurs, get out and stay out. Call 911 from a cell phone or a neighbor’s house. Never re-enter a burning building for any reason.
Plan. Practice. Be Prepared.
Your safety—and your family’s—depends on it.