16
FIRE PROTECTION
Preparing a Fire Escape Plan
Even with the most advanced fire
alarm system, adequate protection
requires an escape plan.
To prepare your plan, draw floor
plans of your building. Show two
exits - a front or back door and a
window from each room. (Make sure
the window works. You may need a
special fire-escape ladder if the
window is high up). Write down your
outside meeting place.
Family Rehearsal
Rehearse each of the following
activities:
1. Everyone in his room with the
doors closed.
2. One person sounds the alarm.
3. Each person tests his door.
4. Pretend the door is hot and use
the alternate escape exit.
5. Everyone meets outdoors at
the assigned location.
Important! - Read Carefully
Discuss these escape procedures
with all those who use the building:
1. In a residence, sleep with the
bedroom door closed. A closed
door will hold back deadly smoke
while you escape.
2. When the fire alarm signals,
escape quickly. Do not stop to
pack.
3. Test the door. If it is hot, use your
alternate route through the
window. If the door is cool, brace
your shoulder against it and open
it cautiously. Be ready to slam the
door if smoke or heat rushes in.
Crawl through smoke, holding your
breath. Close the doors again on
leaving to help prevent the fire
from spreading.
4. Go to your specific outdoor
meeting place so you can see that
everyone is safe.
5. Assign someone to make sure
nobody returns to the burning
building.
6. Call the Fire Department from a
neighbor's telephone.
Would You Like More Safety Information?
For more information on home fire detection, burn safety, and home fire safety, write to the National Fire Protection
Association, Public Affairs Dept. 05A, Batterymarch Plaza, Quincy, MA 02269.