Fire emergencies can happen at any time, in any place. Stocking up on fire protection equipment is good; but you should also know certain rules that you need to follow when it comes to handling these emergencies. Here is a list of dos and don’ts that can help you minimize or avoid the damages that a fire can cause:
Dos
Make sure your smoke detectors are in working order
If you have installed fire alarms or smoke detectors in your building, it is important that you run a maintenance check at least every six months. This way you will be assured of getting notified immediately before a fire can cause damage to your property or employees.
Have a plan for evacuation and keep things easy
You need to have a proper escape plan to evacuate people from the building in case of an emergency. Make sure there are multiple escape routes to make evacuation faster. Let everyone know how to go about it and practice this escape plan a couple of times every year. This can be useful especially if there are young children or aged people in your building.
Create risk awareness
Every person occupying your building should understand the risks that he or she might be exposed to, while staying in that building. Organize fire safety training sessions so that they are aware of the dangers of fire. In case there are any electrical malfunctions get them corrected at the earliest.
Take safety precautions
Invest in fire extinguishers or smoke detectors to keep your building and its occupants protected in case of a fire. Keep them in areas that are easily accessible. Provide proper training on how to operate and monitor them. You can check out asp PH EL if you are looking for a hassle-free way to provide fire safety.
Stay low when there is smoke
Fire can be very dangerous to your life but so is smoke. In fact the chemical composition of smoke can cause serious damage to your lungs and brain. You can get disoriented and even go unresponsive. If you inhale smoke for a long time your breathing may also stop. Hence it is very important to take proper precautions when there is smoke. Get down on the floor and start crawling up to the nearest exit. The air on the floor will be comparatively cleaner and cooler.
Don’ts
Don’t do things to extinguish the fire all by yourself
The best thing to do when there is a fire is to call 911. Do this as soon as you can. If you have installed a fire alarm system the authorities will be informed of this fire instantly and automatically, reducing your stress.
Don’t try being a hero
Saving yourself is the best thing you can do when there is a fire. If you have a definite plan for escape and have practiced it well, all of the occupants can be evacuated from the building easily. Make sure all occupants are aware of this escape plan.
If you know the difference between life and death you will know how important it is to follow these dos and don’ts in case of a fire. Staying safe should be your top priority at all times.
