The National Fire Protection Association recommends locating two escape routes from each room, especially the bedrooms. Then if fire or smoke blocks the door, use the alternate exit, which is usually a window. Make sure that everyone is able to reach and operate locks on doors and windows. Check windows to be sure they open easily and are not painted shut.

A planned escape route can help avoid the panic that costs lives in a fire. Fire experts recommend that:

1. Families study a floor plan of their home to figure out two ways to exit each room in the house.

2. Make sure that everyone, including baby sitters and house guests, knows how to remove screens and safety bars from windows.

3. Practice different escape routes.

4.Designate a tree or lamppost as a place to meet after escaping so that family members can make sure that everyone gets out.

5. Families living in apartments should be familiar with fire exit locations. Never include an elevator in an escape plan. Not only may elevators fail during a fire, but elevator shafts draw hot air and smoke upward, much as chimneys do, making an elevator an extremely dangerous place in any fire.

Pay special attention to children in making a fire escape plan. Children may be terrified of fire fighters dressed in masks and other gear and may hide from them. Show young children pictures of fire fighters, and teach them to go to fire fighters for help. Children should know to "stop, drop, and roll" if their clothing catches fire. Instead of running, drop to the ground, cover your face with your hands, and roll to put out the fire. 

Your escape plan should include an outdoor meeting spot, such as a neighbor's porch, where everyone in the family can check in. If someone is missing, tell fire fighters, but do not go back into a burning building.

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