Families need to develop fire escape plan

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - As part of this year's Fire Prevention Week, fire officials want to make sure parents not only develop an escape plan, but also make sure everyone in the house has two ways out.

Parent, Jerome Peay, has three kids, but no fire escape plan.

"As of now, no I don't have a fire plan.  Now that you bring it to my attention, I need to think of one now. It's a good idea," said Peay.

Dennis Leger, the Aide to the Springfield Fire Commissioner, says there are 150-200 serious fires every year in the city that cause extensive damage or even injury.

Although mapping out a fire plan is not in the forefront of people's minds, it's something families need to think about.

"First of all they need to have a working smoke and carbon monoxide detector is rule number one.  You're 50% more likely to die if you don't have that," said Leger.

Next develop a home fire escape plan with your family by drawing a floor plan and locating all possible exits.

Make special considerations for anyone under 5 year old or over 70 years old living or staying in your home.

They're more likely to panic and hide from the flames or get confused.

Finally, practice the plan twice a year to make sure everyone gets out safely.