Surviving A Fire

First off, the Township of Chatham – Fire Prevention Bureau suggests that you NEVER attempt to use a fire extinguisher to extinguish a fire, generally if the fire is bigger than the physical size of the fire extinguisher.

Call the Fire Department by dialing 9-1-1.

Always call the fire department even after you’ve put out a fire to check that you have done everything toeliminate the cause.

3 Ways to Protect Your Family From Fire

1. Install Smoke Detectors  – Smoke is responsible for 3 out of 4 fire deaths. The loud alert at the first sign of smoke will give your family those extra few minutes to escape safely. SMOKE DETECTOR TIPS – click here
2. Establish an Escape Plan — Have frequent family meetings to establish escape routes from your dwelling. Every room should have 2 means of escape. Rope ladders are recommended for upper floor windows. Have practice drills every 3 months.
3. Place Fire Extinguishers throughout the home

• • Type A : to extinguish wood, paper and fabric fires. Keep one in the garage and the workshop.
  • Type B : to extinguish grease, oil, gasoline, petroleum and other flammable liquid fires. Keep one in the kitchen, the garage and the workshop.
  • Type C : to extinguish electrical fires. Keep one in the kitchen and the laundry room.
  • Type ABC : for extinguishing all three types of fires.

Surviving A Large Fire

How to Get Out Safely

1. Stay calm so you can think clearly.
2. If door is closed, feel it from bottom to top, as well as the knob. If either is cool, you may open the door.
3. Brace foot and shoulder against the door and open slowly. If there is light smoke, crouch low and crawl to the nearest exit with a wet cover over your nose and mouth.
4. Stay low to avoid smoke/toxic gases that collect on ceilings.
5. Close all doors behind you.
6. Never use an elevator.
7. Call the fire department by dialing 9-1-1. Never go back and get anything!

If You Are Trapped

1. Don’t panic! If you exert yourself, you will breathe faster and take in more smoke/toxic gases that can burn your lungs or cause you to become unconscious.
2. Feel door from bottom to top and knob. If hot or warm, stuff clothing/towels in the cracks to keep out the smoke/toxic gases.
3. Open a window at the top to let out heat/smoke collecting on the ceiling. Open window at the bottom and bend down to breathe in fresh air. Never open a window if smoke is rising from a lower floor.
4. Stand by the window, waving something, and wait for rescue.

If You Catch Fire

1. STOP where you are. Moving or running feeds air to the flames and worsens the fire.
2. DROP to the floor. If you stand up, the fire can burn your face. Fold your arms high on your chest to protect your face.
3. ROLL slowly on the floor or ground, or in a rug or blanket, if you can.
4. COOL off as soon as possible with water for first and second degree burns. For third degree burns, seek medical attention immediately.