How often should you check your escape routes at home?

Walk through your escape routes every 6 months, together with the people you live with. The NFPA recommends holding a home fire escape drill twice a year.

In a fire or smoke you have little time, and a clear, familiar escape route makes all the difference. Check that hallways and stairs are clear and that windows used as emergency exits open easily. If you renovate, move house or rearrange furniture, walk the route again straight away.

1. Walk the route from the bedrooms to the front/back door
2. Check that hallways and stairs are free of obstacles
3. Check that windows used as emergency exits open easily
4. Briefly go over the escape route with the people you live with

5 to 10 minutes.

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Work safely and follow the manual. If in doubt, or if it involves gas, combustion or working at height, leave it to a qualified professional.

Source

• NFPA (National Fire Protection Association, VS) — Practice Your Home Fire Escape Drill Two Times a Year (safety tip sheet)

Checked on: 2026-09-24

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