When it comes to fires, the wrong split-second decision can get residents in a life-threatening situation. Mentioned below are some of the most common mistakes people make in the event of a fire and tips on how to avoid them.
Remembering and applying these tips could help in escaping from a potentially life-threatening situation. These basic home fire safety tips are not exhaustive, but give a good foundation for fire safety for the family. Also, remember that for professional advice contact the local FCF fire and electrical team at the earliest.
- Basic Home Fire Safety Tip 1: Don't Try Salvaging Precious Items
Residents must remember that their life is more important than these items
A common trap people fall into when a fire starts in their home is to try to grab items they are emotionally connected to. It is, of course, difficult leaving things that are important behind, especially if they are irreplaceable (such as an heirloom).
However, residents must remember that their life is more important than these items. The time it takes to gather these items could be the difference between getting out and getting trapped.
- Basic Home Fire Safety Tip 2: Don't Underestimate the Danger of Smoke
People are often so focused on escaping the flames of a fire that they don't think of smoke as being a threat to their life. Most victims of fires have died as a result of smoke and toxic gas inhalation.
If people cannot avoid smoke when exiting a building, stay low, cover the mouth and nose and crawl to the nearest exit.
- Basic Home Fire Safety Tip 3: Don't Panic
Panicking can lead to bad mistakes. If asleep and an alarm goes off, this can cause confusion and panic. If this happens, remain as calm as possible and check doors before moving out of the room.
Feel the door with the back of the hand. If the door is hot, look for an alternate route, such as moving to a window.
- Basic Home Fire Safety Tip 4: Ensure Smoke Alarms Are Maintained
Residents should at least have one smoke alarms outside of each sleeping area in the home. They should also ensure that all smoke detectors are tested monthly and the batteries changed twice a year.
- Basic Home Fire Safety Tip 5: Priorities Life
Remember the priority during a fire is to get out of the building as quickly as possible
It is easy to panic and do things in the wrong order. Remember the priority during a fire is to get out of the building as quickly as possible.
Once residents are safely away from the house, then they should call the fire brigade. Do not try to make any calls before leaving the house.
- Basic Home Fire Safety Tip 6: Have An Evacuation Plan
Have an evacuation plan and review this plan a couple of times a year. The more the plan is known by everyone, the better the chances to escape in a fire incident.
Make sure the whole family knows the plan and in case of an employer, make sure the employees are well versed in the evacuation plan.
