Many fires in the home start at night. Make sure you have a bedtime fire safety routine to help keep you and your family safe. Here are a few simple things you should do every night:-
*Switch off and unplug all electrical appliances not designed to stay on
*Make sure no cigarettes or pipes are still burning & NEVER smoke in bed
*Before emptying ashtrays make sure the contents are cold.
*Switch off portable heaters.
*Close the doors of all rooms.
PRE-PLANNED ESCAPE ROUTE
If a fire occurs in your home you may have to get out in dark and difficult conditions. Escaping from a fire will be a lot easier if you have already planned your escape route and know where to go. Make sure that your planned escape route remains fee of any obstructions and that there are no loose floor coverings that could trip you. Everyone in the house should be made aware of the escape route.
WHAT TO DO IF A FIRE STARTS
We all try to prevent fire starting in our home. But it only takes an unguarded or careless moment for a fire to start. A couple of minutes later and your home could be filled with smoke. Smoke and fumes can kill, particularly the highly poisonous smoke from some furnishings.
*You will only have a short time to get out, use it wisely and try not to panic.
*Before opening a closed door use the back or your hand to touch it.
*Don't open it if it feels warm-the fire will be on the other side!
*If possible close the door of the room where the fire is and close all doors behind you as you leave. This will help delay the spread of fire and smoke.
*Get everyone out as quickly as possible. Don't try to pick up valuables or possessions.
*Make your way out as safely as you can and try not to panic. It will help you have your escape route planned rather than waiting until there is a fire.
*Telephone the fire brigade on 999 from a neighbour's house or from a telephone box or mobile. Clearly state the address.
*Never go back into the house until a fire officer tells you it is safe to do so.
IF YOU ARE TRAPPED BY FIRE
*Try to remain calm. If you are unable to use the door because of flames or smoke, close the door and use towels or sheets to block any gaps. This will help stop any smoke entering the room.
*Make your way to the window. If the room becomes smoky, crawl along the floor where it's easier to breathe because smoke rises.
*Open the window and try to attract the attention others who can alert the fire brigade. The fire brigade should arrive in a matter of minutes
*If you are in immediate danger and your room is not too high from the ground, drop cushions or bedding to the ground below to break your fall from the window.
*If you can, get out feet first and lower yourself to the full length of your arms before dropping.
