Learning To Create an Effective Fire Escape Plan

10/18/2021 (Permalink)

A fire escape plan can save your life during an emergency in your Ogden, UT residence.

Do you have a fire escape plan? If not, you are not alone. Many families fail to plan for fire disasters, which makes the disaster even more dangerous. Having an emergency escape plan significantly reduces the risks of injury or death, but it is not enough to have a plan; it must also be an effective plan designed for your specific home and circumstance. You can contact the local fire department or a fire remediation company in Ogden, UT, for assistance.

4 Steps for the Ideal Fire Escape Plan

An escape plan is all about accessibility and ease of use. If you make your plan too complicated or your designated exit points too complex, you risk injury or worse. Every plan is only as effective as its weakest exit strategy, so make sure you can find and acquire the necessary tools to make escape easy and convenient. There are at least four steps for developing the ideal escape plan.

1. Rooms Need Two Exits

While most people feel that having two designated exits from their home is enough to keep them safe during a fire emergency, they are mistaken. You never know where a fire will start or how it will spread. If you only have two exits from your home, you up the chances you will become trapped.

An effective escape plan requires a minimum of two exits per room, meaning bedrooms, basements, attics, kitchens, bathrooms, etc., need two manageable exits. You do not have to get overly creative here. A window and a door are good escape routes; just make sure that every space in the home has a minimum of two ways out, including hallways.

2. Escape Routes Must Remain Clear

As you design your escape routes, remember the paths need to remain clear. Do not place bookshelves in front of windows or couches in the direct line to the front door.

While this seems like a simple rule, it is easy for people to become complacent, especially if they do not practice their routes at least once per month. When too much time passes, it is easy to forget about routes and clear paths. People become more interested in design and style, leading to clutter and potential barricades to your escape.

3. Communication Is Key

Do not underestimate the power of communication, especially repeated communication. When you come up with an escape plan, please do not shy away from talking about it. Quiz your kids on the routes out of their rooms and the house. Ask your spouse to explain to your children how to make quick choices during a fire. By having conversations, even repetitive ones, you ensure your escape strategy remains a priority in the minds of your family.

4. Practice Makes Perfect

Similarly, the physical practice is crucial to developing muscle memory. In a genuine emergency, your brain can freeze, wasting the few precious moments you have to escape a fire. By practicing at least once per month, you ensure your family knows how to get out of the house.

A fire escape plan is a crucial part of family safety. Follow the steps above to create and practice your ideal plan.