In this blog, we will cover how to best deal with a fire. This can be at work, at home or general safety around fires and how to manage them.
Fires spread very quickly, so the first priority is to warn others around you. If you’re in a building and it doesn’t delay your escape, then press the nearest fire alarm and call 999 or 112 for emergency help.
If the call will delay your evacuation, make the call when you’ve left the building if possible. Try to keep everyone calm and assist people to evacuate as quickly as possible.
What to do if there’s clothing on fire
If someone’s clothing is on fire, remember the following steps: Stop, Drop and Roll.
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Stop the casualty from panicking and moving around as any movement may spread the flames.
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Drop the casualty onto the ground and wrap him in a fire blanket or heavy fabric such as a coat or thick blanket.
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Roll the casualty along the ground until the flames have safely been put out.
- Treat any burns that may have been caused
What to do if there’s smoke and fumes
Fires in a confined space create a dangerous atmosphere low in oxygen and high in carbon monoxide.
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If you’re trapped in a burning building, try and get out to the front of the building and close the door. If this is not possible then;
- Block any gaps underneath doors using rugs or heavy fabric.
- Open the window and try and call for help.
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Stay low if you’re in or have to go through a smoke filled room. Since smoke rises, the air at floor level is clearest. However watch out for debris that may have fallen to the floor.
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If you escape through a high window, make sure there is somewhere safe for you to land before climbing out backwards with your feet first. If a jump is needed to be made, then try to lower yourself as much as you can before jumping as to limit the chance of an injury.
What to do when evacuating a burning building
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Activate the first fire alarm you see and try to help others to evacuate the building in a safe and calm manor.
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Close doors behind you to help prevent the fire from spreading. If the building has fire doors make sure that these are closed to help keep the fire isolated.
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Follow the evacuation procedure if you’re at your workplace or follow the provided escape route signs if you’re a visitor.
- Listen to instructions given by the Fire Marshal if there is one on the scene.
