A fire outbreak is one of the situations where staying calm and following established safety procedures is crucial to ensure a safe evacuation. It is important to notify the appropriate emergency services and follow the building’s fire safety instructions. What should you keep in mind? What actions should be taken?
Key Rules of Conduct — Evacuation
A fire alarm is a signal to everyone in the building that evacuation is required.
If the fire department or other emergency services have not yet been notified, they should be called immediately, along with building management, and — if necessary — medical services.
Everyone inside should proceed to the marked emergency exits. Outside, designated assembly points are usually provided. Assigned personnel should check whether all occupants have left the building. If someone remains inside, this must be reported to the emergency responders on site.
The evacuation must be carried out efficiently but calmly.
Elevators must never be used — only staircases. The evacuation leader should work to prevent panic, while all evacuees must cooperate and follow instructions. Quick and correct action can save many lives.
Should You Try to Extinguish the Fire Yourself?
Many companies rely on modern fire protection technologies, such as automatic sprinkler systems, which react immediately and protect specific areas of the building. However, some facilities are only equipped with manual fire extinguishers. If possible, they should be used to attempt to extinguish the fire.
It is also essential to disconnect the electrical installation using the emergency power shut-off switch.
Every person should be trained on what to do in the event of a fire:
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how to behave and evacuate,
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which escape routes to use,
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how to operate available firefighting equipment,
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how to call for help.
It is equally important to remember not to open windows, to protect yourself in case of heavy smoke, and to know the basics of first aid.