Fire is probably the greatest single safety-related threat to our workplaces, our homes and the members of it. Even if everyone were to escape safely, a fire could destroy our facilities and all our documents and data. It is important therefore that we do as much as we can to prevent a fire starting. If despite our best efforts a fire should start, a fast and effective response can help save life and property. So I made a simple guide and hope this will make you aware of the procedures in case a fire arises.
If you discover a fire, it is important to take the following steps in the order given:
1) Sound the alarm whether the fire is still small as no fire is so small that the alarm does not need to be sounded. A fire extinguisher should not be discharged onto a fire until the alarm has been sounded.
2) Get someone to call the fire department.
3) Warn others in the area by shouting “fire”! as some people do not always respond immediately to fire alarms and may only think of it as a false alarm.
4) Only if you can do so without putting your own safety at risk, attempt to fight the fire with a suitable extinguisher, otherwise close the door to the area where the fire is to contain the fire and leave the building and await the arrival of the fire brigade.
If you hear the fire alarm (normally a continuous ringing of the bell for more than 10 seconds):
1) Check the rooms near to yours, if you can, to ensure the occupants have heard the alarm and have left
2) Leave the building by the nearest exit and go to the assembly points
3) If you have any information about someone who might be still in the building, report to the person in charge.
Do not re-enter the building until the fire alarm has been silenced.
Always make it a daily habit to check that corridors and escape routes must be kept clear. Combustible materials should not be stored in corridors or on escape routes where they could become a source of fire and smoke.
Furniture and other items should not be placed so they partially block escape routes. Narrowing of escape routes will reduce the rate at which people can leave the building in an emergency. In a corridor filled with smoke, furniture can create a serious obstacle for someone who is trying to find their way out. To read on the overview of Fire, click here or check the gallery section for firefighting photos.
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