19 Basic Fire Safety Tips to Learn

Fire is a dangerous force of nature and must be prevented at all cost either at home or the workplace. Measures must be taken to ensure its outbreak is prevented.

FIRE SAFETY TIPS

1. The best way to fight a fire is to prevent it from occurring.
2. Keep your environment clean and free of trash, which can serve as fuel for a fire.
3. Do not store flammable liquids in hot, enclosed spaces.
4. Do not refuel a generator while it is still on or when it is still hot.
5. Do not ignore that strange smell coming from your electrical appliances. That may be the first sign of a potential fire.
6. Avoid using electrical appliances that have frayed wires or faulty plugs as this could lead to electric shock.
7. Take note of all fire exit signs around you. Never ignore them as they might come in handy.
8. Keep all emergency and fire exits free of any form of blockage.
9. Learn to recognize the sound of the fire alarm and never ignore it even if it is a routine fire drill.
10. Leave all your possessions behind when the fire alarm goes off and head for the nearest fire exit.
11. Avoid using the elevator in the event of a fire. It is very unsafe to use one during such an emergency.
12. If there is smoke within a room, try to get closer to the floor where the air is fresher and cover your nose and mouth if possible, then move to a safer location.
13. If you notice that your clothing is on fire, remember to STOP, DROP to the ground and ROLL until the fire goes out.
14. Call the emergency number(s) in your location or the fire service as quickly as possible; give clear directions of your location and how to get there.
15. Never attempt to fight a fire if you are not trained to do so.
16. If you are trapped in a building, get close to a window and try to signal for help.
17. Learn to use the right extinguisher for the type of fire observed; electrical fire, fire from flammable liquids or combustible materials.
18. To put out a fire, remember to ‘PASS’ – Pull, Aim, Squeeze and Spread/Sweep.
19. Learn to stay away from overhead electrical cables and buried power cables, which could lead to burns, electrical shocks and even, fires.