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Each Year, Thousands of People Die in House Fires
In most instances, those people could have survived if they had
installed and maintained smoke detectors and if they had an escape
plan which had been regularly practiced. Because most fatal fires
occur at night, regular practice of your home fire escape plan is
important. It will give you confidence and a head start if a fire
emergency occurs...and, in a fire, seconds count!
E.D.I.T.H. - A plan to save your life in case of fire. Don't
wait for smoke and fire to surprise you. Gather everyone in your home
and plan your fire escape now. Then practice your E.D.I.T.H.
(Exit Drills in the Home). Remember to make a new plan immediately if
you move.
Some Tips That Could Save Your Life
Draw two escape routes from each room -- especially bedrooms.
Include hallways and stairs along each route.
Install and maintain smoke detectors. Their early warning can mean
the difference between life and death.
Make sure that you know how to open windows and that they open
easily. Think about how you would get out. Is the window low enough
for you to hang from the window sill and then drop to the ground? From
the upstairs, plan your route to the ground across balconies or porch
roofs. Decide if you need a special fire escape ladder. Know how to
safely install and use one.
Accommodate the special needs of disabled people or very young
children in your plan. Be sure that they are located near an exit and
can receive assistance easily, if needed.
Teach children never to hide under beds or in closets. Bring
children to the firestation so that they can see the protective gear
that firefighters use. This will help them to not be afraid of
firefighters during a rescue.
If your clothes catch fire, STOP where you are. DROP
to the ground and ROLL over to put out the flames. DO NOT
RUN. Running will only increase the flames.
Make sure that everyone knows to dial 911 in case of an emergency.
If your house is on fire, make your 911 call from a neighbor's house.
Your first priority is to get out quickly and safely. Once you are
out of the house - stay out. No possessions are worth your life.
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