Fire Safety
Fire Action Planner
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Emergency Basics
Knowing what to do in a fire could save your life.
Read on to find out what experts advise you should do if the worst ever happens.
If Your Escape Route is Clear'
- If a fire starts, shout to warn everyone in the house.
- Get out quickly and don't stop for valuables - a life is more precious than any thing you own.
- Keep low down - air is cleaner and cooler nearer the floor.
- Don't look for the fire - keep doors closed.
- If you can't escape, get everyone in a safe room.
- Never jump out of a window - if you can, lower yourself onto cushions. But only ever attempt this as a last resort.
- When you're out, stay out
- Phone the Fire & Rescue service on 999
- Alert your neighbours
- Don't go back inside until the firefighters tell you it's safe
If You Can't Get Out'
- Get everyone into one room (if possible one with a phone). This is your 'safe' room.
- Never open a door if it's warm to touch - there could be a fire inside
- When everyone's in the room, pack clothes, cushions, pillows or towels around the door to keep smoke out
- Open a window and shout until someone calls 999 for the Fire and Rescue Service
- Stay at the open window
- If you're on the first floor, you might be able to drop some pillows or cushions and then lower yourself from the windowsill. But only ever attempt this as a last resort.
- If there are two adults, one should go first to catch children. Pass them slowly and stretch full length before you let them go.
- No-one should ever jump
- If you're on a higher floor, lean out of the window for fresh air until the firefighters arrive
If Clothes Catch Fire
- if your own clothes catch fire, stop, drop and roll until they go out
- if another person's clothes catch fire, wrap them in a fire blanket to smother the flames
- if you don't have a fire blanket, wrap the person in a coat, rug or blanket to smother the flames

