We all want to keep our families safe. How do you prepare for that in the event of a fire?

We all know that a fire can be devastating and destructive. Another horrible aspect of fire is that it can happen and spread very quickly. This can mean that there is only a limited and minimal amount of time to react safely and get to safety. We’ve previously discussed having an emergency supply kit at the ready in case of emergencies, which would most certainly include fires. Another very important factor in fire safety is having a fire safety plan for you and everyone who lives in the home in Derby, Kansas.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN FORMULATING A FIRE SAFETY PLAN

• Age and physical ability of all family members

• Type of home you live in (i.e. basement, 2nd story, stairs, apartment building, etc)

• Where are the smoke alarms located and whether they cover enough area of the home to detect a fire early on

WHAT MAKES A EFFECTIVE FIRE SAFETY AND ESCAPE PLAN

• Learn two ways out of every room in your home, in case one exit is blocked or dangerous to use. A second way out can include an escape ladder for rooms on an upper level.

• Make a written fire escape plan using a grid to show all exits available in case of fire.

• Practice getting low and moving to your exits in case there is smoke.

• Keep escape routes clear, with any emergency kits easily accessible but not blocking escape routes.

• Choose a safe meeting place a safe distance from your home.

• Have a home fire drill at least twice a year.

• Make considerations for children, elderly, or ones with disabilities to be helped by a specific member of the household.

• Make sure that smoke detectors are installed on every level of the home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Make sure they are in working order, testing at least twice a year.

THE UNFORESEEN

Unforeseen events, such as fires or other emergencies, are not easy or pleasant to consider. But considering them before such an unforeseen event as a fire happens can mean a world of difference. The American Red Cross estimates that there are many times in a fire emergency where households literally have minutes to escape. Those are precious minutes for everyone to get to safety as safely as possible. The fact that fires are unforeseen and unpredictable makes this type of preparation all the more important in Derby, Kansas.

There are several websites that can help you to create your own personalized fire safety plan:

• Redcross.org

• Ready.gov

• NFPA.org

In the event of a fire, you will not regret having a fire safety and escape plan. Keeping your loved ones safe through this kind of preparation is always a good thing.

FIRE AFTERMATH

As mentioned and as you know, fires can be traumatic and devastating events. In the aftermath of a home fire in Derby, Kansas, it may be almost impossible to truly know where to start or what to do next. If you ever find yourself in this situation, please give us a call, we can help!