Exit Drills In The Home (EDITH)
Develop a fire escape plan and conduct evacuation drills in the home. When fire detection warning devices activate, there are less than four minutes to escape. Practice EDITH on a regular basis.

• An effective escape plan depends on careful preparation, proper placement of smoke detectors and regular drills.
• Make a drawing or floor plan of the home showing the normal exits (doors) and all emergency exits (windows) that would be used in case of fire. Include stairways, porches and roofs.
• There should be two avenues of escape from each room. A window can be used for escape if the door can't be used because of smoke, heat or gases. If a window is high above the ground, you may need to buy a special fire escape ladder. Make sure windows will open (not painted shut, stuck, etc.).
• Methods should be developed to alert the family of impending danger. They include smoke alarms, whistling, shouting, and pounding on the walls. Take special precautions for children and others requiring assistance.
• Sleep with bedroom doors closed. Doors keep out deadly smoke, heat and gases, and increase the available time to escape.
• Designate a safe meeting place after exiting the building. No family members should ever go back into the burning structure.
• Use a neighbor's phone to call the fire department.
• Hold exit drills every six months. They are often discussed but seldom practiced.
  In a fire, seconds count.
• Exit drills should include use of the primary escape route and meeting at the designated area outdoors.

Home Fire Facts