Evacuation plan....

[mamaof4]

I would keep them in the house. I would just feel safer that way,

[betsy]

I would keep them in the house. I would just feel safer that way,

But if there is fire?.....

Every seconds to get out count.

[betsy]

The daycare will be in our basement, and naps will be taken in the basement as well. We've got a ranch-style house and two possible exits - up to the front door, and towards the garage (attached to the basement).

I've got fire alarms on both levels.

My imagination is running away with me here ....
Desperate scenario: If for some reason we cannot use the two doors, I plan to use the windows that opens to the lawn (fortunately there are no shrubs). Just lift them one at a time, and push them out the window.

Yes, tis true about adrenaline kicking in!

[betsy]

Way back when I had a daycare, our drill included the possibility that they might have to act on their own. I had older children then.

We pretended that I got overcome by smoke, or I had an heart attack or I got injured and unconscious.....the older ones (3 years and above) were instructed to grab hold of the toddlers (who can walk) and just go straight out and head for the neighbors. Tell the neighbors that their caregiver is injured (and if there's any baby left in the house with her). I was thinking that they might end up overcome by smoke if they try to lift up the non-walkers....or they might panic and just huddle with everyone. They know which houses are likely to have people during the day.

I stressed out that the sooner they can tell someone, the better chances of the caregiver and anyone left behind to be saved.

My husband works from the house most of the time now, therefore most of the time I'll have some help in case of emergency.