Not making a fire escape plan can be a deadly mistake. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that 3,925 people died in fires in 2003 - including more than 3,000 in homes. If a fire strikes your house, will you be able to get out alive? Fire victims can tell you that knowing - before a fire - what to do and how to get out can be the deciding factor in whether or not you will survive.

Here's what you need to do right now:

• Install working smoke alarms on every level and outside each sleeping area.

• Develop a fire escape plan that identifies two ways out of each room and a family meeting place outside.

• Make sure your plan allows for any special needs in your household. If everyone knows what to do, everyone can get out quickly.

• Practice the plan at least twice a year. If everyone knows that everyone else is ready to exit quickly, no one will lose precious time trying to help someone who doesn't need help.

• Some studies have shown that children might not awaken to the sound of the smoke alarm. Before a fire occurs, know what your child will do.

If the unthinkable happens, yell, "Fire! Everyone get out!" Move to your closest exit, and

if you run into smoke, turn and use another way out. If you must exit through a room with smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit. Don't take time to pick up belongings; just get out and help others get out. Move fast, but stay calm.

Sit down tonight and make a plan. Then take a few minutes to walk through your house and practice using the exits you've identified. Choose a meeting place and memorize our emergency number (911) so you can call us once you get outside.

Visit www.eccfpd.org's Fire Prevention link for other fire-related information.

Provided as a public service by the East Contra Costa County Fire Protection District.