Fire Drill Safety Rules

Rendezvous

• Designate a meeting place outside the home where family members can gather after exiting the fire. This allows accounting for everyone in the household, so firefighters can be informed if anyone is missing.

Escape Routes

• Each living area should have more than one escape path. Second-floor rooms should have a fire escape ladder that can be lowered from the window to the ground.

Locks

• All members of the household should practice unlocking windows and doors and be able to do it in the dark.

Doors

• Check for heat before opening a door. Place the back of your hand against the door, the door knob and the space below the door before attempting to open the door. A warm door could mean there is fire on the other side.

Crawl

• Heat and smoke rise, so crawl on the floor to keep from breathing smoke. Try to keep your head within two feet of the floor. If possible, use a wet cloth to cover your mouth and nose.

Get Out Fast

• Do not try to grab valuables or rescue pets while exiting a fire. Get out of harm's way and then call the fire department.