Escape Plans

mother with children working on escape planPlan how you would escape a fire in your home

Families who are well-prepared are more likely to escape their homes safely and without panic.

As part of your plan, all family members should know:

  • The two quickest ways out of every room
  • How they will exit from upstairs if your home has a second storey
  • An agreed-upon meeting place outside, such as the letterbox
  • How they will call Triple Zero (000)

Download and print a home fire escape plan template (PDF 148.6KB) to help create your plan.

If someone in your family is older or has a disability, complete the Prevent Detect Escape e-learning module.

Top survival tips

  • If your clothes catch fire, stop, drop and roll
  • Get down low and stay out of smoke.
  • Use the back of your hand to check doors for heat before opening
  • If it's safe, close doors to slow down the spread of fire and smoke.
  • Alert other people on your way out.
  • Get out and stay out.
  • Meet at a safe place such as the letterbox or footpath outside your home.
  • Call 000 (triple zero) from a mobile phone or a neighbour’s phone. Ask for FIRE when the call is connected.

What parents need to know

Children are less likely than adults to wake up to the sound of a smoke alarm. Think about how you might be able to reach children’s bedrooms if regular access is blocked by fire.

Families should practise ‘fire drills’ twice a year – more often with younger children.

Useful tips for parents

  • Turn it into a game by timing how quickly they can escape
  • Make sure children know their home address and how to call Triple Zero (000)
  • Use online games and activities to teach children about fire safety

Never lock your deadlocks when you're at home

During a fire it will be dark and smoky – and a deadlocked door could block your escape. If you must keep deadlocks locked, leave your keys in the door.

Basic treatment for burns

  • Remove clothing around the burn, unless it has stuck to the skin
  • Cool the burn under running water for 20 minutes. Never use oil, butter or ointment
  • Cover the burn with a clean cloth or cling wrap and keep the patient warm
  • See a doctor if the burn is blistered, larger than a 20 cent coin, or on the face, hands, feet or genitals.

 

 

Page last updated:  Tuesday, 27 August 2024 11:21:22 AM