Fire Survival - Home Escape Plan

News Release
Reno Fire Department
October 6, 2009

“Planning and practicing a home fire escape plan twice a year could mean the difference between life and death for you or a family member,” says Reno Fire Marshal Joan Presley.  As part of the Reno Fire Department’s observance of National Fire Prevention Week, October 4-10, Presley is urging area residents to identify two escape routes out of each room, if possible, and making sure that each escape route can be used safely by everyone.

Presley says that just as important as having a home fire escape plan is making sure that home escape routes are clear.  Presley items that block doors and windows in homes could keep occupants from escaping in the event of a fire, “and that is especially important if people have to try to escape in smoke conditions that can easily confuse them.”

According to Presley, the following recommendations can help residents make sure they have a way out in the event of fire:

       Draw a plan of your home that includes all exits and a designated safe meeting place outside the home that is far enough away so that everyone is out of danger, but close enough to be easy to get to.

       Discuss the plan with all residents of the home and practice the plan at least twice a year, but more often if possible.

        Inspect windows with security bars to make sure they have quick release devices that everyone in the home knows how to use.  Security bars or steel screens on doors and windows that don’t come with a quick release mechanism could keep you trapped inside during a fire, or prevent firefighters from being able to enter your home to rescue you.

       When arranging furniture and other items in the home, make sure that you’re not blocking doors or windows with televisions, heavy dressers, tables, couches, even potted plants.  Every room needs two ways out, so remove furniture that may be blocking doors or windows.

        Never nail or paint windows shut.  Opening windows could be crucial in the event of a home fire.  Inspect windows and doors to make sure they are in working order, and remove nails or paint that could prevent windows from being used for escape.

        When using plastic to cover windows in cold weather, make sure everyone in the family can easily remove the plastic in case of emergency.

        Remove toys or other items that may be blocking doors or windows, and help children understand that a pile of toys or other items in front of a doorway can block your escape route.

        Make sure there are working smoke detectors on every level of your home and that all sleeping areas are protected by working smoke detectors.  Test smoke detectors at least once a month, and change the batteries when you change your clock in the spring and fall.

Presley says area residents seeking more information on home escape planning and fire prevention in the home or business, can contact the Reno Fire Department’s Division of Fire Prevention at (775) 334-2300.