Did you know that groundhogs are great at emergency escape planning? Groundhogs spend most of their time in underground burrows. These burrows, like many homes, have one main entrance but also have up to four auxiliary entrances. This allows groundhogs many options to enter and exit their homes in case the main entrance is blocked.

Be like a groundhog! Plan for multiple ways to get out of your home in the event of a fire.

Every second counts in a home fire - plan and practice your escape

» Learn two ways out of every room in your home, in case one exit is blocked or dangerous to use. A second way out can include an escape ladder for rooms on an upper level.

» Pick a meeting place that’s a safe distance from your home.

» Practice getting low and moving to your exits in case there is smoke.

» Test your smoke alarms with your kids so they know what the beep sounds like.

» Use a timer to ensure everyone is at the safety spot in two minutes or less.

» Have a home fire drill at least twice a year.