Most people have a false understanding of what fire really is, they think it reacts as television shows depict. This misconception can be deadly - fire is dark, hot, fast, and deadly!  Make sure your family is safe from fire by following the tips outlined below:

The first step in having a home escape plan is to make sure everyone in your family sits down and has input into the home escape plan which should be a drawing of your home with all major features (bedrooms, stairs, hallways, doors, windows). A key point is to have a meeting place outside shown on the map. Also, have your normal exit path in one color with your secondary exit in a different color

There are some other items to consider before you actually practice your drills:

• Make sure your windows are easy to open and are large enough for a person to get through. If you have obstacles in front of your window remove them. If the windows are painted shut or have security bars make arrangements to get them working. Educate children to open the windows, not to break them (this will only lead to further injury).
• Know what you need to exit from a second story or higher, such as escape ladders (which can usually be purchased at any home improvement store)
• Make sure that each family member knows their responsibilities with a back-up plan. This is especially critical for families that have infants or elderly living with them.
• Make sure to test your smoke alarms regulary so all family members know what they sound like. When practicing your drills, press the test button on the smoke alarm and see how everyone reacts.
• Make sure you keep your exit routes clear of obstacles (toys, tripping hazards, etc.)

Once you have your plan, it is know time to practice it. E.D.I.T.H (Exit Drills In The Home) and D.A.N. (Drills At Night) are acronyms to help you remember what to do.
Take the drills seriously, you are practicing with your life!

• When you hear the alarm stay low and crawl to your exit. Smoke and gasses can kill you, so staying low will ensure better air.
• Time is critical – do not worry about gathering valuables or pets. The key is to get out and stay out until emergency personnel allow you back in.
• Use the back of your hand to test the door and doorknob for heat. If you feel heat do not open the door, use your second exit. If the door is cool to the touch, slowly open it and look for smoke and/or flames – if clear crawl toward your exit.
• Feel or count items along the way so you become familiar with your surroundings. In a real fire it will be completely dark and you will be disoriented from the smoke.
• Go directly to your outside meeting place and wait for everyone in the house to exit. Designate someone that will call 9-1-1 from a neighbors house (during a real fire).

Once the drill is over, find out what worked and what needs improvement.

Each family/household will have different circumstances, so you need to add things that apply to YOU. Also, remember that there are different situations if you live in an apartment, condominium, or hotel/motel.