The Importance of Having a Fire Safety Plan

 For the one-hundredth anniversary of National Fire Prevention Week, the 2022 NFPA slogan is, “Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape,” to remind you about the simple but important things you can do to keep yourself and those around you safe in the event of a home fire .

A home escape plan is perhaps the best fire safety measure you can take. Here at Mister Sparky Electrician Tulsa, we know the dangers electricity and fires pose to homes and families. We’ve broken down the steps you can take to implement a home escape plan with data and tips from the NFPA. 

Once your plan is in place, call Mister Sparky Electrician Tulsa or visit our website to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced and skilled electricians. They can review your home, identify possible electrical hazards, and administer quick, effective solutions. 

If a fire emergency occurs, call 911 and use your home escape plan. 

Home Escape Plan for Fires

According to the NFPA , today’s homes burn faster than ever. This is because more synthetic materials are being used to build homes and the furniture inside them. Synthetic materials can burn faster than organic ones, making a perfect storm for a house fire. 

That means having a home escape plan for fires is more important than ever. You have less time to react and get yourself and your family somewhere safe. Making your plan and practicing it is critical to wisely use that small amount of time. 

Steps For Your Home Fire Escape Plan

1. Make a map of all the rooms in your home

Making a map will help you visualize the space you’re working with and provide a helpful visual aid for children. 

2. Identify two exits in each room

After making your map, try to identify two exits in each room. Exits are typically a room and a window. Also, mark where the smoke alarms are on your map. 

3. Determine an outside meeting place

Then, determine an outside meeting place where everyone will meet once outside of the home. This way, you’ll all be together and can safely ensure no one else is still in the home. 

4. Practice twice a year AT MINIMUM

Your plan is no good if no one remembers it. Practicing your plan regularly ensures it will go smoothly, even if you are alone. 

Other fires dangers to think about for Fire Prevention Week

The fire itself is the most obvious danger. But there are other factors in play that can be just as harmful. 

Smoke

Smoke carries fine particles of soot that, when inhaled, can penetrate deep into your lungs, causing shortness of breath and a lack of oxygen. Smoke can also worsen asthma and other pre-existing respiratory issues. 

Carbon monoxide

When fires burn synthetic material, carbon monoxide will be released. Carbon monoxide is hard to notice but can cause unconsciousness and possibly death if inhaled for long periods of time. 

That’s why it’s essential to get out of a burning house as fast as possible. 

You may not be there to help your loved ones when a fire strikes. That’s why it’s so important to have a practiced plan in place. Everyone in the home must be able to avoid the dangers of a fire by themselves. 

Here at Mister Sparky Electrician Tulsa, we’re proud to participate in National Fire Prevention Week by helping educate our customers on fire safety.

If you’re interested in learning more about fire safety and the NFPA, you can visit their website here: NFPA Fire Prevention Week or give Mister Sparky Electrician Tulsa a call.