What practice best prepares families to act safely in the event of a fire?

Creating and practicing escape routes and a meeting place outside is the best practice for preparing families to act safely in the event of a fire. This proactive approach ensures that all family members are familiar with the quickest and safest ways to exit the home in an emergency, which is crucial when time is of the essence during a fire. By rehearsing these escape plans regularly, families enhance their confidence and readiness, reducing confusion and panic when an actual fire occurs.

Additionally, having a designated meeting place outside ensures that all family members can quickly verify their safety once they exit the home, which is important for both accountability and facilitating emergency response efforts. This preparation goes beyond mere discussion or reliance on equipment, making it a comprehensive strategy for fire safety.