What to do in a fire!

7/1/2019 (Permalink)

To protect yourself, home, and loved ones, follow the fire safety guide below so that you’re prepared!

1. Plan an escape route. Start by drawing a map of your home including doors, hallways, and windows. Identify any main emergency exits. Come up with your primary escape route and then a few alternate routes in case one is blocked. Test your escape route out by having a fire drill with your family to better prepare yourself and loved ones.
2. If you can, extinguish the fire. Call the fire department the moment you identify a fire but also assess if you can put it out. Just make sure that if there is too much smoke or heat, get yourself to safety.
3. Don’t panic.
4. Test doorknobs. If you feel heat, it is probably not safe to enter.
5. Humans and pets first – belongings second. Resist the urge to grab your laptop or other valuables and rescue all living as they are not replaceable. Rank the family in order of who needs most help. If you have the time go back and get your important documents such as birth certificate, marriage certificates, and photos.
6. Stop, drop, and roll. Smoke and heat are often more dangerous than the actual flames. Smoke rises, so the best breathable air is going to be lower to the ground. When you see heavy smoke, drop to the floor and crawl to the nearest exit. Use a piece of clothing or even a towel over your nose to filter the smoke.
7. Don’t use the elevator.
8. Get out and don’t go back.