Our 3-Step Escape Plan

  • First Escape Route
  • Second Escape Route
  • Meeting Place
Notes

Use this space to note any additional information about your escape plan, i.e. who will assist

Your checklist
  • Get low

    Smoke is poisonous and more deadly than flames.

    If you breathe smoke for more than a few breaths it can kill you.

  • Be fast

    A house fire can kill you in less than three minutes.

    Don't spend time trying to save possessions.

  • Close doors

    A closed door buys you time.

    It slows down the spread of fire, giving you more time to get to safety.

  • Get out - stay out!

    People have died by going back into a fire.

    Don't leave the meeting place to go back inside for any reason.

Dryers and electric blankets

Clothes dryers

  • Try a heat alarm in your laundry instead of a smoke alarm as you might get false alarms. 
  • The lint filter is cleaned before every use, to avoid lint build-up and risk of fire.
  • The dryer isn’t overloaded.
  • There is space around the dryer to allow for proper venting.
  • The full cycle is used, including cool down.
  • Remove lint from the clothes dryer filter after each use. Static electricity and build up of heat can cause dust, lint and chemical residue on clothing to catch fire.
  • Ensure the dryer goes through the full cycle, including cool down, before you open it.
  • Ensure there's proper ventilation and air space around the clothes dryer.

For more information, take a look at our smoke alarm guide.

Electric blankets

  • Check for hotspots in your blanket by turning it on high for 15 mins, then switching it off and running your hand over the blanket
  • Use electric blankets less than 5 years old
  • Heavy objects are never placed on the bed while electric blanket is in use.
  • If you use an electric blanket, make sure it lies flat on the bed and the controls or cords are not twisted or caught. Twisted cords are a common cause of electric blanket fires.
  • Worn and old electric blankets can cause serious injury. At the first sign of wear, replace the blanket or have it checked by a qualified electrician.
  • Never sleep with an electric blanket turned on, even on a low temperature. Always switch it off before you hop into bed.
  • If storing an electric blanket off the bed during summer, roll it up rather than fold it.

For more information, take a look at our guide to staying safe in winter.