Family Fire Drill – Fire Safety Month

It’s the perfect time of year to run through a Family Fire Drill

According to the National Fire Protection Association, there was a home structure fire reported every 85 seconds in 2013. That is something to really wrap our heads around.

Years ago, when we moved to a home with a second floor we realized that we needed to have a plan in the event of a fire. We also knew we had no way of getting anyone out of our top floor, so after discussing that with firefighters, we invested in a good emergency ladder. Our current home also has a second floor and we’re glad to have the ladder. Every year or so we pull it out and practice a fire drill.

When we run through our fire drill, I set up a scenario telling where the fire is and yell out GO! They have to then quickly figure out the best escape route and meet at the Lilac bush away from the house. The first one to the bush has to run to the neighbors to call 911. All of this has come about after much conversation about fires, being safe, and being prepared; as well as trips to our local fire department.

Our local fire department is a great resource and we have visited several different times. Going there does a lot of good, for both young and older alike.

*Helps develop good report between children and firefighters

*They hear helpful tips such as throwing things out of a window if you can’t get out of the room for some reason, stay low if there is smoke, don’t open a hot door, etc.

*gives the family an opportunity to ask questions

*children get familiar with the equipment so they won’t be scary if it would ever be needed

Our local fire department also has a smoke house that they bring to expositions and first teach children the procedures for dealing with a fire and then allow children to practice the safe steps of getting out of a burning building.

Unfortunately folks too often allow fear to push them away from preparedness or they just don’t take the time to even consider these things. Don’t let that be you, for your safety and the safety of your family members come up with a plan, discuss it as a family and practice it. Setting up a time to visit your local fire department as a family is a good idea too. Safety and preparedness go a long way.

Resources: this site has worksheets for primary and elementary aged children that can help you have good conversations about fire safety. 

In the middle of this FEMA page, you’ll find links for outreach materials which include this helpful pdf entitled Home Safety Checklist. Be sure to check out this post from Eileen on Fire Safety too!