Preparing for the unthinkable was the focus on last week’s Citizens Fire Academy session. From generating a safety checklist to making an escape plan, class members were encouraged to plan ahead.“Take a home safety checklist and walk around your house every month checking things off,” said McMinnville Fire Department training officer Capt. Phil Mitchell.Lists should include checking smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, electrical outlets and appliance cords, making sure safety steps are being followed with candles, cooking, heating and smoking, and going over the home escape plan with family members.Smoke alarms should be located on every level of the home and inside and outside each sleeping area. They should be tested and cleaned monthly, with batteries changed twice a year.