The Firefighters Association of the State of New York Secretary is offering safety tips in honor of fire prevention month.

In 2021, fire departments across the country responded to an estimated 1.35 million fires, according to a National Fire Protection Association study. These fires caused 3,800 civilian fire deaths and resulted in an estimated $15 billion in property damage.

FASNY Secretary John D'Alessandro says there are several things one can do to increase their chance of survival in a house fire.

"The theme of fire prevention week this year is have an exit plan. Make sure everybody in the house knows what that exact plan is. The exact plan needs to be practiced. Get the whole family together a couple of times a year and review the plan. Make them pretend as if they're sleeping, set the smoke alarm off and have everybody go through the pace of the exit plan."

Firefighters practice drills several times a week in order to establish muscle memory. Muscle memory is an important aspect of the escape plan because it can provide extra time. Since fires can double in mere moments, every second counts.

It is also recommended that escape plans feature a common gathering spot for everyone in the house. This is because firefighters prioritize search and rescue when people are unaccounted for.