What's Your Fire Plan?

4/10/2017 (Permalink)

In an emergency situation, like a building fire, every second counts. How quickly you respond could depend on how prepared you are before the emergency. Emergency planning and training directly influence the outcome of an emergency situation. Facilities with well-prepared tenants and well-developed plans are likely to incur less structural damage and fewer or less severe injuries.

When preparing a fire evacuation plan, it is important to designate multiple evacuation routes and exits. This ensures more than one way to exit the building, should an exit be blocked by fire. When choosing emergency exits, consider the following recommendations:

• Exits should be clearly marked and well lit.


• Exit routes should be wide enough to accommodate the number/volume of evacuation personnel.


• Exit routes should remain unlocked and clear of debris at all times. 

If you prepare drawings that show evacuation routes and exits, post them prominently for everyone to see. Once an escape plan is created, it should be practiced to help familiarize everyone with emergency exit routes. The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) recommends practicing fire and emergency evacuations at least twice a year. It is important to talk to your local fire department, as local codes may required more frequent drills for various facilities. 

Fire Escape Safety Tips:

• Make a plan- remember, every second counts


• Practice your plan- make sure you, your staff, and/or your family are well-versed in escape routes from every area of your home or business. Practice leaving the property with your eyes closed, feeling your way out.


• Leave immediately- don't stop for possessions or keepsakes. Exit as quickly as possible. If the smoke has already grown thick, crawl low and cover your mouth to avoid smoke inhalation.


• Never open doors if they are hot to the touch- when you come to a closed door, use the back of your hand to see if the door is hot to the touch. If it appears the fire is on the other side of the door, leave it shut and find another escape route.


• Designate and outside meeting place- designate a meeting location away from the building. Take attendance to ensure everyone is accounted for and safely evacuated.