On October 7-13, the National Fire Protection Association recognizes National Fire Prevention Week. The efforts focus on a specific theme each year; this year, the organization urges families to “Have Two Ways Out.”

Locally, the Atlanta Fire Foundation encourages metro-area families to prepare a fire safety plan. In addition to supporting the efforts of the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department, the foundation offers prevention and preparedness tips:

• Make a home escape plan. Draw a map of your home showing all doors and windows. Discuss the plan with everyone in your home.

• Know at least two ways out of every room, if possible. Make sure all doors and windows leading outside open easily.

• Have an outside meeting place (like a tree, light pole or mailbox) a safe distance from the home where everyone should meet.

• Practice your home fire drill at night and during the day with everyone in your home, twice a year. Practice using different ways out.

• Teach children how to escape on their own in case you can’t help them.

• Close doors behind you as you leave.

• Smoke alarms save lives. A good rule of thumb to remember is “Change your batteries when you change your clock.” Smoke alarm batteries should be replaced in the spring and in the fall.