TOMS RIVER, N.J. — As the fall season begins and families prepare for back-to-school routines, the Toms River Bureau of Fire Prevention is reminding residents of the critical need for a well-practiced home escape plan in case of a fire or other emergency.
In a “Fire Safety Friday” post, the department outlined key steps for creating and maintaining a home escape plan:
- Family Meeting: Begin by gathering all household members to discuss the importance of fire safety and quick evacuation during an emergency.
- Two Ways Out: Identify at least two exit routes from every room, especially bedrooms, which can include doors or windows.
- Smoke Alarms: Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, in all sleeping areas, and outside bedrooms. Test them monthly and replace batteries annually.
- Regular Drills: Practice fire drills regularly, ensuring everyone knows how to escape, where to meet outside, and how to call 911.
- Door and Window Safety: Make sure doors and windows are not blocked and open easily. Teach family members how to unlock and open windows.
- Meeting Point: Establish a designated meeting place at a safe distance from your home, such as a neighbor’s house or mailbox, where everyone can gather after escaping.
- Fire Extinguishers: Keep fire extinguishers in key areas, and ensure all family members know how to use them.
- Emergency Numbers: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including 911 and local fire departments, near your phone.
- Stay Low in Smoke: Teach family members to stay low to the ground when escaping through a smoke-filled area.
A practiced home escape plan can save lives in an emergency, the department stressed. Families are encouraged to implement these steps to keep their loved ones safe.