Home Fire Escape Plan

In a fire, there may be only a couple of minutes to get out. Families who have practised get out faster. Draw your plan together, then practise it.

Make the plan

Draw your home on the grid below, marking every door and windowFind two ways out of every roomMake sure windows open easily and aren't blockedChoose a meeting spot outside, a safe distance from the houseDecide who helps babies, older relatives or petsMake sure everyone knows how to call 911 (or your local emergency number)

Smoke alarms

Smoke alarm on every level and outside every sleeping areaTest alarms once a monthReplace batteries as the manufacturer recommendsReplace alarms that are 10 years old

Practise

Hold a fire drill at least twice a yearPractise once at nightPractise crawling low under smokePractise “stop, drop and roll”Teach kids never to go back inside

Draw your home

One square ≈ 3 feet. Mark doors (D), windows (W), smoke alarms (★) and your meeting spot.

Our meeting spot: ______________________________

General preparedness information based on common public-safety guidance. Always follow instructions from your local officials.

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Questions

How many exits should a fire escape plan have?

Plan two ways out of every room, usually a door and a window.

How often should we practise a fire drill?

Fire safety groups recommend practising your home fire drill at least twice a year.

Where should our meeting spot be?

Somewhere outside that won't move and is a safe distance from the house, like a neighbour's mailbox or a tree.