Escape plan

We hope never to have a fire in our home, having good habits reduces the risks. Make an escape plan and make sure everyone knows it.

 What should you do if alerted by a smoke alarm at home

If you can see or smell smoke;

• Shout to any other people in the house that there is a smoke alarm going off.
• The best route is the normal way out of your home. (Make sure exits are kept clear.)
• Think of a second route in case the first one is blocked.
• Door and window keys should be kept where everyone can find them
• Once you are out, stay out and make sure that the Fire brigade is called phone 999
• Take a few minutes to practice your escape plan.
• Review your plan if the layout of your home changes.

What to do if your escape route is blocked

• If you can’t get out, get everyone into one room, ideally with a window and a phone.
• Put bedding around the bottom of the door to block out the smoke, then open the window and call “HELP FIRE” better still use a phone, if you have one, dial  999 and ask for the fire service.
• If you’re on the ground or first floor, you may be able to escape through a window. Only as a last resort-use bedding to cushion your fall and lower yourself down carefully. Don’t jump.