Originally Posted by drseuss:
You are supposed to practice evacuating the home as if there were really a fire. They need to associate the sound of the smoke alarm with the idea of making a quick exit. I know what you are getting at, as I live in a cold climate, too. But, no, you don't stop to get them all ready to go out. You whoosh them out, and whoosh them back in just as quickly. Then give them hot chocolate. 
I cant give them hot chocolate here! (per regs!)
Yup, the older kids are now 'onto' me with drills, as I get the front porch/back deck shoveled off REALLY WELL and then put a cheap area rug or towel over it to protect their little toes. We go right out, and come right back in. THEN we discuss what we would do in a REAL FIRE. If the weather is good, we do a full get out and stay out, go to the meeting place, stay there until it's all clear (I have dh yell "ALL CLEAR!" from a window)