18
BE PREPARED
Smoke and heat alarms properly installed and maintained are an essential part of a good home
safety programme. Review fire hazards and eliminate dangerous conditions whenever possible.
When fire strikes, a prepared and practised escape plan could prove vital. Consider and discuss the
following hints:
• Ensure everyone is familiarised with the
alarm signal.
• Always test doors with your hands before
flinging them open. If they feel warm, fire
may have walled up behind them – leave
closed and find another escape route.
• Don’t waste time collecting possessions.
Arouse all occupants and leave the building.
Your life is more valuable!
• GET OUT, STAY OUT, GET THE FIRE
BRIGADE OUT.
• Keep everyone in a set meeting place after
you escape.
• If trapped inside, stay close to the floor, cover
your mouth with a cloth and conserve breath
as you crawl to safety.
• Keep all windows and doors closed except for
escape purposes.
• Prepare and practice an escape plan before a
fire starts.
• Draw a floor plan. Have fire drills often.
Practise your escape.
IF THERE IS ANY QUESTION AS TO THE CAUSE OF THE ALARM, ALWAYS ASSUME THAT THIS IS AN
ACTUAL FIRE AND FOLLOW YOUR FIRE EMERGENCY PLANS.
