Evacuation Plan

The importance of an Evacuation Plan

There is little use having a properly working smoke alarm in the house if you don’t have an evacuation plan.

In the panic of a fire it is usually impossible to locate the keys to release deadlocked doors.

An evacuation plan may enable the whole family to safely get out of the home during a fire.

Every household should practise or examine its evacuation plan as it saves lives, especially when fire and smoke can engulf a home in just minutes.

The plan should include keeping keys inside the latches of doors that are locked or deadlocked while occupants are inside the home.

If there is a fire, each member of the household should know what to do and where to meet. It will give everyone a better chance of getting out alive and reduce his or her level of panic.

The NSW Fire Brigades suggested home fire escape plan is set out below:

• Install smoke alarms, test them regularly and replace batteries at least once a year.
• Know two ways out of every room if possible.
• Decide on a safe meeting place outside, for example the letter box.
• Draw your escape plan on paper.
• Discuss it with your family.
• Practise your escape plan at least once a year.
• Once outside, do not go back in!

For further information on evacuation plans call the NSW Fire Brigades ComSafe Training Services on (02) 9318 4824