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Fire Protection Tips
"If in doubt, get out"
If on the rare occasion, you are forced to fight a fire, always remember your safety is paramount: don't try to be a hero. Fires are extremely dangerous and can be life-threatening.
Always make sure you are aware of the following factors before attempting to fight a fire:
- That you have raised the alarm by calling the fire brigade or activation of the fire alarm.
- The fire is small and not spreading too rapidly.
- You have the right type of fire extinguisher.
- You have a means of escape, should the fire go out of control.
- The fire equipment is working properly.
- You have had the correct training and are able to competently use the fire fighting equipment.
How to fight a small fire
- Ensure you are as close as possible to the nearest exit. Never turn your back on the fire.
- Stand well back before you attempt to extinguish the fire.
- Use a
sweeping
motion and aiming at the base of the fire, move closer until the fire is extinguished.
- For as long as safely possible, make sure the fire doesn't re-ignite.
Do not attempt to fight a fire if:
- The fire is growing and spreading quickly. Escape as swiftly as possible, closing all fire doors behind you.
- You are not aware what is burning. Petrol, gas or other flammable materials can be extremely dangerous.
- You don't have the correct type of fire extinguisher. For example, water based extinguishers can be dangerous on electrical fires.
- There is a high risk of smoke inhalation, or the room temperature is rising fast.
Be aware of what is in the room you are fighting the fire in. Flammable material, gases, sealed containers, oils or electrical equipment all have high risks of explosion in a fire, so "if in doubt, get out!"
What can you do to prevent fires in your home?
- Have smoke detectors fitted in the main rooms of your home. A minimum of two is recommended.
- Test the smoke alarms regularly.
- Make sure you have easy access to fire protection equipment such as fire extinguishers and fire blankets. Try to have a fire extinguisher in a common area on every floor; always have one with a fire blanket in the kitchen.
- Ensure you have a fire escape plan.
- If you live in
large accommodation, carry out regular fire drills and assign a fire
warden in each major area.
- Ensure a high level of prevention in your home. Chimneys are cleaned, chip pans are empty when not in use, portable heaters are clear of dust and switched off when not in use. If you use candles, make sure they are out and placed in safe area away from fire threats such as curtains and loose fabrics.
- Check your home last thing before night, making sure all electrical appliances are off (not on standby), doors are closed, ashtrays are empty, open fires are gone down with guards in place and keep areas clear.
A good example of how a fire, if ignored, will spread fast causing risk to life.
For more information on any of the above
please contact us at:FireFight0877424994firefightire@gmail.comJoin
us on Facebook
FireFight is a member of the NFPA International.
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