A home fire escape plan doesn't do much good unless you practice it. That's why why State Fire Marshal Al Christie is encouraging families all across South Dakota to have a plan and to practice it before there's a fire.

This week, Oct. 7-13, is National Fire Prevention Week and, just like every other week of the year, an average of 56 people will die in house fires someplace in America.

"We're heading into the cool season. That's when we often see home fires spike in this state," Christie said. "People need to take the time now to put together an escape plan and practice it."

Some tips for putting together a home fire escape plan include:

n Identify two ways out of each room and a family meeting place outside. If everyone knows what to do, everyone can get out quickly.

n Plan for any specific needs in your household, such as small children or people with disabilities.

n Polls show most families say they have an escape plan, but few of them practice it. Make it a point to practice the plan twice a year.

n Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home. Have one inside each sleep room or outside each sleeping area.

n Test smoke alarms at least once a month.

This is all basic information that seems obvious, but in the face of the confusion and chaos of a home fire, it is not. A little effort and planning now on your part can help keep your family safe if disaster strikes.

For more help, ideas or resources on home fire safety, visit the web site www.firepreventionweek.org.

So please, don't procrastinate.

Take the time to put together an escape plan, and practice it this week. Before there's a fire. Not afterwards.

It just might save your life or the life of someone you love.