Date: 24th February, 2022
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding people to make sure they know what to do should they have a fire at home.
The most important thing to remember is Get Out, Stay Out, Call 999 – even dashing upstairs to get your phone, or looking for your keys, could leave you trapped by smoke and flames.
Safe & Well Manager Vikki Thomas said: “We have had a number of house fires in recent weeks, and this has highlighted how important it is to plan for the worst happening. None of us want to think about experiencing a fire at home, but it’s essential that everyone is clear on what they should do, how to escape and, most importantly, the things they can do to reduce the risk of fire in the first place.”
She added: “While we completely understand the instinct to gather up possessions, or even go back into the property, doing this can be life-threatening as smoke is extremely toxic and can render you unconscious in just a few minutes. If you have a fire, get outside, call the fire and rescue service, and stay safe until crews arrive.”
The Service’s website www.dwfire.org.uk/safety-at-home offers advice on planning the following:
- Knowing what information will be needed when you call 999.
- Identifying escape routes and ensuring that they are always clear of any obstructions.
- Making sure everyone in the home knows the escape plan, and also where door or window keys may be kept.
- Fitting smoke alarms on every level of the home and testing them regularly.
- Keeping internal doors closed to limit the potential spread of fire.
- Having a bedtime routine to ensure that the property is as safe as it can be – for example, electrical items switched off and candles extinguished.
There’s also lots of story-telling, fun activities and videos for children to learn about fire safety on the website under Education – www.dwfire.org.uk/education
If you have any fire safety concerns, you can request a free Safe & Well visit, where someone will visit you to help assess the fire risk in your home and offer support and guidance. Call free on 0800 038 2323 or apply online at www.dwfire.org.uk/safe-and-well-visits