What to do in the Event of a Fire

In any emergency, dial 999 at the earliest opportunity and stay safe until the emergency services arrive.

What to do in the event of your smoke alarm activating

Would you and your family know what to do if a fire starts in your home? Please take a few minutes to read the information on this page. It really could make a difference in the event of a fire in your home or workplace.
Please read the information below and share it with your family – that way you will be better equipped to escape safely and quickly in the event of a fire.

Raise the Alarm

If your fire alarm goes off in the middle of the night, do not investigate to see if there is a fire, shout to wake everyone up, follow your escape plan and get out.

Check closed doors with the back of your hand - if they are warm do not open them - the fire is on the other side. If there is a lot of smoke, you should crawl along with your nose near to the floor where the air will be fresher.

If Your Escape Route is Blocked

Get everyone into one room and close the door. Put bedding or towels along the bottom of the door to seal the gap - smoke and fumes can kill people quickly so it is important to stop them getting into the room.

Open the window and stay near it for fresh air and to let the Firefighters see you. Phone the Fire Service or shout for help so that someone else can phone for you.

Tackling Fire

There is no such thing as a safe fire. It is better for you to prevent fire than to fight it. Tackling fire is a job best left to the professional firefighters. You should only tackle a fire if it is in its early stages and you are completely sure you can put it out and stay safe.

Escaping From a Window

If you are on the ground or first floor you may be able to escape from a window. If you have to break the window, cover any jagged glass with towels or thick bedding and throw some more bedding out of the window to break your fall. Do not jump out of the window - lower yourself to arms length and drop to the ground.

If you have any children, or elderly or disabled people with you, plan the order in which you will escape so you can help them down.

Don't Go Back Into Your Home

Call the Fire Service on 999 from a mobile phone, neighbour's house or a phone box. Do not go back for anything.