Fire Control
If you discover a fire, get everyone out of the house. To this end, there should already be an escape route, previously planned and rehearsed. It is very important to have one, especially in case of fires on upper floors. After everyone is safely outside, call the Fire Department. If you are the last person out, shut all doors and windows as you leave.
If the fire is small and in its early stages and you are certain that you can tackle it without danger to yourself, make sure that everyone is safe before you begin. You should also make sure that the fire extinguisher is suitable for the type of fire. Most extinguishers are labeled as to the types of fires they best control. “All-class” extinguishers are suitable for any type of fire. When using an extinguisher, be careful not to scatter burning material with the jet.
Every room should have a second exit in the event that the usual one is blocked by fire or smoke. Usually the second exit is a window. On second and third floors, this should lead to a roof or balcony where you can wait for help to arrive. If there is no such structure, you should use a rope, a chain ladder, or some other aid to climb down.
If you are trapped in a room by a fire somewhere else in the building, you should shut the door and block any cracks with material, such as bedding, to prevent smoke from filling the room. Then go to a window and shout for help. If smoke fills the room, lean out of the window. If this is impossible because of flames from below, lie on the floor where the air is clearer. If you have to escape before help arrives, throw bedding, clothes, or even card-board boxes onto the ground to break your fall. Lower yourself or a child to full arm’s length before dropping. If you are in a room above the second floor, drop only as a last resort.
