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16. What To Do When The Alarm Sounds
• Leave immediately by your escape plan. Every second counts, so
don’t waste time getting dressed or picking up valuables.
• While leaving, don’t open any inside door without first feeling its
surface. If hot, or if you see smoke seeping through cracks, don’t
open that door! Instead, use your alternate exit. If the inside of the
door is cool, place your shoulder against it, open it slightly and be
ready to slam it shut if heat and smoke rush in.
• Stay close to the floor if the air is smoky. Breathe shallowly through
a cloth, wet if possible.
• Once outside, go to your selected meeting place and make sure
everyone is there.
• Call the fire department from your neighbour’s home - not from
yours!
• Don’t return to your home until the fire officials say that it is all right
to do so.
• There are situations where a smoke alarm may not be effective to
protect against fire.
For instance:
a) smoking in bed
b) leaving children home alone
c) cleaning with flammable liquids, such as petrol
