Being prepared is key to surviving fires

Written by Phil Cerroni

The Irving Fire Department reminds everyone that next week is Fire Prevention Week and this year's theme is Know 2 Ways Out. Plan Ahead! If a fire breaks out in your home, you may have only a few minutes to get out safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Everyone needs to know what to do and where to go if there is a fire. Make sure your family has a Home Fire Escape Plan.

Please keep the following fire safety tips in mind to protect your family from fire:

Make a home escape plan and discuss the plan with everyone in your home.

Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily.

Have an outside meeting place (like a tree, light pole or mailbox) a safe distance from the home where everyone should meet.

Practice your home fire drill at night and during the day with everyone in your home, twice a year.

Practice using different ways out.

Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.

Source: Irving Fire Department