How to Conduct Family Fire Drills
We’re used to fire drills and evacuation practice at school or work, but have you considered what would happen in a fire at your home?
Unfortunately, many people never hold a fire drill in their home and this can cause the loss of precious time in the event of an emergency, as
no one is certain what they should do.
Make an Escape Plan
There should be a plan for getting out of every room in the house. Ideally, you’ll have two ways out. For example, in a bedroom, if the hallway is
full of fire, you may escape out the window. If the windows are too high to safely get down, you’ll need an alternative, such as a ladder that can
be dropped out the window.
Set a Meeting Point
You should have a spot where everyone will go as they get out of the house. This should be a place that is a safe distance from the house, but in
a clear area for good visibility. It will be easier to see who is missing if everyone goes to the same place as they get out.
Practice Safe Ways to Get Out
In the case of smoke, everyone should know how to get down on the floor and crawl there, as smoke tends to rise. They should also know how
to check if the door is hot before opening it, which could help prevent severe burns.
It’s important that everyone in the house is familiar not only with the exits, but actually using them. In an emergency, panic often sets in and it
can be difficult to remember something you’ve only been told but have never done. Practice placing and using the emergency ladder and
crawling on the floor.
Children in Fire Drills
Children may be too young to get out of the house on their own if there is a fire. You and any other adults should determine who will go for
each child in the case of an emergency, so there is no confusion when you have to do it. It’s also important to let children know that they
should not stop to look for parents when the house is in flames.
Children must be taught to stay out of the building. They should never return once they’re out, not even for a pet. It’s very important that they
practice their escape skills, too, since practice will help ensure they get out fast when there is an emergency.
Family fire drills are very important for family safety. While you will hopefully never need to use this knowledge, it can save lives.
For more information on fire safety, contact
Ace Fire and Safety. We have everything you need to keep your family safe.
