If a fire broke out in your home, how fast do you think it would take to get out? October 9-15, 2016 is Fire Prevention Week and a new study shows that you only have about 3 minutes. I know — only 3 min! That’s hardly any time. 30 years ago, it was estimated that you had about 17 minutes to get out of your house safely after a smoke alarm went off. Now, you only have 3-4 minutes.
Why do fires spread more rapidly now? This is due to a variety of reasons, but mostly it comes down to the materials used to build homes, as well as home furnishings, which are more flammable than they were before. Engineered lumber isn’t real wood and it burns more quickly than synthetic materials used in furniture and bedding. Also, the way homes are designed with more open floor plans, higher ceilings, and fewer compartments and doors in the home encourages fire spread.
Here are four steps you can use to make the most of those 3 minutes and protect your family.
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Have a Fire Escape Plan
Plan at least two ways to escape each room in your house, as well as have a specific meeting place outside your home. Then, go over it with everyone in your family.
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Install Smoke Detectors
Unfortunately, most home fire deaths happen at night when people are sleeping. Installing smoke detectors and regularly testing them to make sure they are functioning properly can help warn you of a fire in your home. Also, manufacturers recommend that they should be replaced every 10 years.
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Close Doors Behind You While Escaping
Doors are excellent fire blockers and a closed-door can compartmentalize the fire and significantly reduce how quickly it can spread.
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Practice
Practice your Fire Escape Plan with your family often so it will be like second nature to them and make sure they all know the safe meeting spot for your family to go to in case of a fire in your home.
