Home fire safety and escape

Plan household fire escape routes and a meeting place

The employer should show the helper the exits, escape stairs, alarm, and outdoor meeting place, including not forcing a route through heavy smoke.

High-priority reminder

Last reviewed: 2026-08-22

Why it matters

Without a plan, people lose time and may return to look for one another.

Unsafe: Never checking the escape stairs or agreeing where everyone will meet.

The employer should show the helper the exits, escape stairs, alarm, and outdoor meeting place, including not forcing a route through heavy smoke.

Check the area, equipment, and household arrangement before starting.
The employer should show the helper the exits, escape stairs, alarm, and outdoor meeting place, including not forcing a route through heavy smoke.
Stop and tell the employer if the situation is unsafe or unclear.

For serious injury, unconsciousness, breathing difficulty, or immediate danger, call 999 and keep yourself safe first.

This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.