Fire Survival Techniques

Escape Plan

• Prepare and memorize an escape plan. Brainstorm all the possible exit routes from your home. Draw your plan, and post it in a highly visible place. Rehearse the plan with anyone who shares your home.

Emergency Supply Kits

• Place an emergency supply kit in each room of your house; the kit can save your life and buy you time if all of your escape routes are blocked. Mark the box as a "Fire Survival Kit." Include a few gallons of water in bottles, a blanket, towels, energy bars and first aid supplies. Use the water to hydrate yourself and pour on burns. Place towels soaked with water along the bottom of doors if a fire breaks out; the towels block smoke from coming into the room. Soak a blanket in water to throw over your entire body in case you must make a run for it. Using a wet towel over your mouth and nose reduces smoke inhalation, the leading cause of death stemming from fires.

Avoiding Panic

• Do not hesitate in your escape -- or try to grab items to take with you -- when a fire erupts. Decide who will be responsible for retrieving children, disabled household members or pets. Delaying or panicking can be fatal. Deadly conditions often occur in as little as two minutes. Get out immediately; you can replace your items, but not your life.

Fire Extinguishers

• A fire extinguisher buys you time and might extinguish small fires blocking your escape route. Locate a few fire extinguishers around the home; teach everyone how to use them properly.