Every household should have some sort of escape plan in place just in case the worst was to happen. Hopefully you will never have to use it, but it is important to prepare for it so there is no delay when it is put into action.
Plan Together
Plan together as a family – make sure that all the children in the household know the plan and what to do in the unlikely event of fire occurring. Special arrangements need to be made for any elderly people who may live with you and how you will implement the escape.
The Escape Route
Ensure that the escape route is practicable and can be carried out. Have regular talk thoughs so its always fresh. It is also advisable to have a room where you could all stay if the worse was to happen. We suggest that this room also has a telephone so you can call for help. Make sure all the children know your address in case they have to telephone themselves.
Shout for Help
It’s important to let firefighters know you are there, and if you haven’t managed to call 999 you need to raise the alarm. Lean out of the window to breathe if you need to. Keep drawing attention to yourself. If the window is locked try breaking it with a heavy object. Strike the window in the corner, as it can be hard to break the glass. It may also be worth purchasing several Life Hammers – a small price to pay if it aids your escape.
Escaping
Only escape from a window if you are in immediate danger from the fire. When you are in the room, put bedding or clothes at the bottom of the door to stop the smoke coming in before you have all escaped. If there are two adults, then one should drop first to help the children to be lowered before being dropped – don’t jump. If you are escaping from a upper bedroom throw out the mattress or bedding to help cushion the landing.
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Last modified on July 3rd, 2017 at 11:53 am