It’s always best to know what you’d do in an emergency before you have one.

This can make the difference between life or death if you have a fire in your home.

You should plan an escape route and make sure everyone knows how to escape. The best route is the normal way in and out of your home but you should think of a second route in case the first one is blocked. Take a few minutes to practise your escape plan and review the plan if the layout of your home changes.

As part of the #30Days30WaysUK campaign Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service dedicated web page has some excellent advice to follow to make sure you plan and know your emergency escape route before you need it.

Making an escape plan

Follow LFRS's quick guide to help you make your own escape plan:

1. Draw a floor plan to help you visualise the building. Your drawing skills don’t have to be perfect!

2. Mark where everyone sleeps.

3. Highlight the potential escape routes out of the building. Include alternatives in case one is blocked by a fire.

4. Think about where you could take refuge if all your escape routes are blocked.

5. Make sure everyone knows where to meet outside.

6. Don’t reenter the building after you have escaped.

Remember: if you have a fire in your home, get out, stay out, and call the Fire Service out via 999.

Do not attempt to put the fire out yourself. This is why many people get hurt.