EXIT DRILLS IN THE HOME E . D . I . T . H . E.D.I.T.H.
When it comes to home fires, seconds matter. Most fatal fires in homes occur at night, when people are asleep and slow to react. An early warning from a smoke alarm is critical, but by itself is not enough. Families must have a practiced escape plan – one they can execute under stress, darkness, or confusion. That’s where E.D.I.T.H. – Exit Drills In The Home – comes in. This fire safety tool has a simple goal: prepare, rehearse, and implement a home escape plan so that when smoke or flames strike, your family can act quickly, safely, and with confidence. HOME FIRE ESCAPE PLANNING: E.D.I.T.H. KEY ELEMENTS OF A GOOD E.D.I.T.H. PLAN 1.Install and maintain smoke alarms 2.Draw a floor plan and identify escape routes
More than half of fatal residential fires happen while people are sleeping. Smoke and toxic gases rise quickly and often travel ahead of visible fire, meaning paths may become impassable even before flames reach them. In many emergencies, people panic, make poor decisions, or forget their plan. Having a rehearsed drill can reduce hesitation and confusion. A well-practiced drill helps family members remember alternate exits, respond appropriately in low-visibility conditions, and understand what to do if a door is hot or blocked. WHY IS E.D.I.T.H. IMPORTANT?
SPECIAL SAFETY TIPS
If a door is hot, don’t open it; use an alternate route. If you are trapped, close all doors between you and the fire, stuff cracks with cloth such as blankets or clothes, and wait at a window. Crawl low, keeping your head within 1 to 2 feet of the floor. Smoke rises, and the air near the floor is cleaner. Never re-enter a burning building. Don’t stop for valuables; get out quickly and safely. Be aware of heavy sleepers and children who may be afraid of the loud alarm. Alert them to exit if it is safe to do so.
3.Inspect and test exits 4.Practice realistic drills
INSTALL AND MAINTAIN SMOKE ALARMS.
GO TO YOUR MEETING PLACE OUTSIDE THE HOUSE.
INSTALL AND MAINTAIN SMOKE ALARMS.
KNOW TWO WAYS OUT.
KNOW TWO WAYS OUT.
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CITY OF PLACENTIA | WINTER 2025/26
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