CALL 101 IN CASE OF FIRE
FIRE SAFETY IN PUBLIC SPACES
We urge people to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves when they’re in public buildings like malls, theatres, Hospitals, and restaurants. Most people don’t consider fire a significant risk, and complacency is one of the greatest dangers when it comes to fire safety, No one ever thinks it will happen to them – until it does. Fires can and do happen and people need to be prepared in the event of one.
FIRE SAFETY TIPS FOR ENTERING AND SPENDING TIME IN PUBLIC SPACES.
Before You Enter
Take a good look. Does the building appear to be in a condition that makes you feel safe? Is the main entrance wide, and does it open outward to allow easy exit? Is the outside area clear of materials stored against the building or blocking exits?
- Have a communication plan. Identify a relative or friend to contact in case you are separated from family or friends in an emergency.
- Plan a meeting place. Pick a meeting place outside to meet family or friends with whom you are attending the function. If there is an emergency, be sure to meet them there.
When You Enter - Locate exits immediately. When you enter a building, make sure to identify all available exits. Some exits may be in front and some in back of you. Be prepared to use your closest exit. You may not be able to use the main exit.
- Check for clear exit paths. Make sure aisles are wide enough and not obstructed by chairs or furniture. Check to make sure your exit door is not blocked or chained. If there are not at least two exits or exit paths are blocked, report the violation to management and leave the building if it is not immediately addressed. Call the local Chief Fire Officer to register a complaint.
- Do you feel safe? Does the building appear to be overcrowded? Are there fire sources such as candles burning, cigarettes or cigars burning, pyrotechnics, or other heat sources that may make you feel unsafe? Are there safety systems in place such as alternative exits, sprinklers, smoke alarms, emergency lights and public address system? Ask the management for clarification about your concerns. If you do not feel safe in the building, leave immediately.
During an emergency - React immediately. If an alarm sounds, you see smoke or fire, or other unusual disturbance, immediately exit the building in an orderly fashion.
- Get out, stay out! Once you have escaped, stay out. Under no circumstances should you ever go back into a burning building. Let trained fire fighters conduct rescue operations.
(Source: NFPA USA)
5 THINGS YOU SHOULDN’T DO IN FIRE ACCIDENT
- Do not yell anything else….
….but “FIRE ,FIRE,FIRE “ - Never get into a lift when there is a fire
…… Always use the stairs. - Do not run if your clothes catch fire because it will fan the flames …
….. Instead Stop ,Drop & Roll. - If you’re not trained in fire safety, do not shout instructions to those trapped…..
….. You may confuse them, and it may cost a life. - Do not hide in bathrooms during a fire .
….. because if the fire doesn’t kill you, smoke could.
IF CAUGHT IN SMOKE
- Drop to hands and knees and crawl towards the nearest exit.
- Stay low, smoke will rise to ceiling level first.
- Hold your breath as much as possible.
- Breathe through your nose; and
- Use a filter such as a shirt, towel or handkerchief.