
Using a fire drill as a model for a quick evacuation plan for your family, place the event in perspective. We need to think about who needs to be involved. Appoint older children to buddy with younger ones or to be in charge of pets. Schedule a family meeting to discuss the drill with the older children that are not going to be frightened by the subject. A four year-old may not understand the concept where a 13 year old will. Take care not to unnerve the youngest members of you family with these discussions. Put your escape plan on paper and talk about what to do and how to get out in the event of a fire, flood, or any situation that requires you to leave your home.