Health Tip: Create an Escape Plan at Home

Devise exit routes in case of fire

By Diana Kohnle

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

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Fire Safety

(HealthDay News) -- It's important to create and practice a fire escape plan at home, and to teach it to every member of the family.
The U.S. Fire Administration offers these guidelines:

Draw a diagram of your home, marking all doors and windows. Devise two escape routes from each room.
Make sure all exits are clear of clutter.
Keep your child's bedroom door closed to help keep smoke from overtaking the room.
Talk to young children about firefighters, encouraging the children not to be afraid and explaining that firefighters will offer help in an emergency.
Teach children how to crawl low on the floor if there is smoke. Kids should also learn to feel closed doors for heat before opening them.
Designate a safe meeting place outside the home, and make sure children understand that they are never to go back inside.

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