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should be one way to get out of each
bedroom without opening the door, and
alternate means of escape from an upper
floor in the event of the stairs being blocked
(such as a fire escape).
• Make sure everyone recognises the smoke
alarm signal and knows how to react to it.
• If there are small children to consider it is
important to explain to them what the
smoke alarm signal means. Teach them that
they must be prepared to leave the home
by themselves if necessary. Show them how
to check to see if doors are hot before
opening them. Show them how to stay close
to the floor and crawl if necessary. Show
them how to use an alternative exit if the
door is hot and should not be opened.
• Decide on a meeting place a safe distance
from your house. Again, if you have them,
make sure that all your children understand
that they should go and wait for you there if
there is a fire.
• Hold fire drills at least every 6 months to
make sure that everyone, including small
children, know what to do to escape safely.
• Know where to go to call the Fire Brigade
from outside your home. Contact your local
Fire Brigade. They will give you more ideas
about how to make your home safer from
fires and how to plan your family’s escape.
