In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the importance of having a fire escape plan. However, the Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) is urging families in Harlow and across Essex to take a moment to prepare. A well-practised escape plan can be life-saving, especially for children who may become frightened or confused during an emergency.
Aileen Wilson, ECFRS’s Education and Specialist Interventions Manager, emphasises the importance of preparation: “We know how busy family life can be, but taking just a few minutes to talk about your escape plan, and even better, practice it, can save lives. If a fire starts at home, every second counts. Children especially benefit from knowing exactly what to do.”
Three Simple Steps for Families:
- Plan Your Escape Route: Ensure everyone in the household knows the quickest and safest way out. This knowledge is crucial when every second counts.
- Practice Together: Conduct a walkthrough with your children. Repetition makes the escape plan second nature, reducing panic in real situations.
- Test Smoke Alarms: Regularly check that smoke alarms are functioning and that everyone recognises their sound. This is a vital step in early fire detection.
To further support families, ECFRS offers free home safety visits. A friendly team member can assist in creating or reviewing your escape plan, testing and fitting smoke alarms if necessary, and providing personalised fire safety advice. Additionally, fun and educational activity sheets are available on the ECFRS website to help children learn about fire safety in an engaging way.
At Peter Cuffaro Estate Agents, we understand the importance of safety in the home. Our team is here to support you with expert advice and services to ensure your home is not only a place of comfort but also safety.
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