Create a home fire escape plan to ensure your family’s safety

ADO II Ebenezer Gaisie from the Tema Regional Headquarters of the Ghana National Fire and Rescue Service recently appeared on Plan B FM’s social show, “Nyansapɔ Fie,” hosted by Nana Asabea and emphasized the importance of creating a home fire escape plan to ensure family safety.

Gaisie stressed that every second counts in a fire emergency and having a well-planned escape strategy can save lives.

He also highlighted the importance of engaging with local authorities to ensure homes are built with safety features like emergency exits.

Gaisie advised creating a home fire escape plan today to ensure survival in the face of a fire emergency.

Assistant Station Officer Samuel Larbi-Bonney from the Motorway Fire Station of the Ghana National Fire and Rescue Service, on his part, advised against using burglar-proof windows since they can make escape difficult during a fire outbreak.

He also emphasized the importance of shutting doors after escaping to prevent air from fanning the flames. Additionally, Larbi-Bonney encouraged the use of fire lights, emergency lights, and fire detectors, as well as maintaining setbacks when building.

”It’s also crucial to have a well-planned escape route in case of a fire. This includes designating two escape routes out of each room, practicing the escape plan with all household members, and testing the plan to ensure it works well,” he urged.

Moreover, he added that ”make sure the last person leaving each room closes the door after exiting to slow the fire and give family members extra time to escape.”

Larbi-Bonney added that ”in case you encounter smoke or flames while escaping, stay calm and move quickly through the house using the fastest and safest route out. If you see smoke but no flames, crawl on your hands and knees, staying below the smoke. If you encounter flames, you may need to go through another room to exit the house, always testing the doors and looking for signs of fire before moving from one room to another. Once you escape, report to the designated meeting place outside the home, check to see whether all family members are safely out, and call the emergency response number.”