12
F I R E P R O T E C T I O N
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. (Space is provided
on the next page). 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.
