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Risk Watch: Make Time For Safety

"Escape and Wait" Could Be Next "Stop, Drop and Roll"

March 13, 2008 Ð Undoubtedly, "Stop, Drop and Roll" has saved lives since its introduction several decades ago. But two Royal Oak, MI Local 431 fire fighters say that when it comes to fire safety procedures, planning an escape route needs to be emphasized more. Dan Phillips and Cary Thompson have launched their own educational tool called "Escape and Wait."

The "Escape and Wait" method is developed for children, but can be used by adults as well. Families are asked to:

1. Escape from the fire or hazard
2. Not go back inside
3. Wait outside for the fire department
4. Ask a neighbor to call 911

To accompany the program, Phillips and Thompson developed a pentagon-shaped sign to post outside the home. The sign is designed to be posted at the location the family plans to meet and wait for fire fighters.

"During the stress of a house fire, it becomes difficult for anyone to remember what to do," says Phillips. "If you have a sign outside and have practiced your escape plan, it is much easier to act quickly."

Phillips and Thompson created "Escape and Wait" in 2007. It is currently being taught in local Michigan schools and Safety City USA, a fire safety program administered by an area hospital. The Passaic Fire Department will be endorsing this such program in the very near future.