Fire Escape Planning
More than 4,000 Americans die each year in fires, and approximately 20,000 are injured. Deaths resulting from failed or not having emergency escapes are particularly avoidable. The Greendale Fire Department believes that having a sound escape plan will greatly reduce fire deaths and protect you and your family's safety if a fire occurs.
Have a Sound Fire Escape Plan
In the event of a fire, remember - time is the biggest enemy and every second counts! Escape plans help you get out of your home quickly. In less than 30 seconds a small flame can get completely out of control and turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for a house to fill with thick black smoke and become engulfed in flames. Click the links below for more information:
1. Practice Escaping From Every Room In The Home
Practice escape plans at least twice a year. The best
plans have two ways to get out of each room. If the
primary way is blocked by fire or smoke, you will
need a second way out. A secondary route might be a
window onto an adjacent roof or a collapsible ladder
for escape from upper story windows. Make sure that
windows are not stuck, screens can be taken out
quickly and that security bars can be properly
opened. Also, practice feeling your way out of the
house in the dark or with your eyes closed. If you
can not get out make sure your door is closed and go
to the window. Arriving firefighters will check the
home and if people are seen in the windows the will
raise ladders and rescue you. Never jump if you will
hurt yourself.
2. Immediately Leave The Home
When a fire occurs, do not waste any time saving
property. Take the safest exit route, but if you must
escape through smoke, remember to crawl low, under
the smoke and keep your mouth covered. The smoke
contains toxic gases which can disorient you or, at
worst, overcome you.
3. Never Open Doors That Are Hot To The Touch
When you come to a closed door, use the back of your
hand to feel the top of the door, the doorknob, and
the crack between the door and door frame to make
sure that fire is not on the other side. If it feels
hot, use your secondary escape route. Even if the
door feels cool, open it carefully. Brace your
shoulder against the door and open it slowly. If heat
and smoke come in, slam the door and make sure it is
securely closed, then use your alternate escape
route.
4. Designate A Meeting Place Outside and Take Attendance
Designate a meeting location away from the home, but
not necessarily across the street. For example, meet
under a specific tree or at the end of the driveway
or front sidewalk to make sure everyone has gotten
out safely and no one will be hurt looking for
someone who is already safe. Designate one person to
go to a neighbor's home to phone the fire department.
5. Once Out, Stay Out
Remember to escape first, then notify the fire
department using the 911 system or proper local
emergency number in your area. Never go back into a
burning building for any reason. Teach children not
to hide from firefighters. If someone is missing,
tell the firefighters. They are equipped to perform
rescues safely.
Finally, having working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home dramatically increases your chances of survival. Smoke alarm batteries need to be tested every month and changed with new ones at least once a year. Also, consider replacing the entire smoke alarm every ten years, or as the manufacturer guidelines recommend.
Downloads:
Fire Escape Plan Fact Sheet (pdf )
Fire Escape Plan Grid (pdf )
Information provided above with assistance from the United States Fire Administration www.usfa.dhs.gov
