In just two minutes, a fire can be life threatening. In just five minutes, a home can become ablaze.
Learn about fires
- Fire is fast! A small fire can become a large one in less than 30 seconds. In minutes, thick black smoke can fill an entire house.
- Fire is hot! The heat is more dangerous than the flames. The temperature in the room can reach 600 degrees when a fire is burning. This super-hot, dry air can burn your lungs. It will also melt your clothes.
- Fire is dark. The fire starts out bright but soon produces smoke, which quickly turns black and causes complete darkness.
- The fire is deadly! More people are killed by smoke and toxic gases than by flames. The fire produces toxic gases which make you drowsy and disoriented. To find out about Fire Risk Assessment Bristol, visit https://keloscape.co.uk/areas-we-cover/fire-safety-consultancy-bristol/
Smoke Alarms
Working smoke alarms increase your chance of survival in a home fire.
- Batteries should be replaced twice annually, except if you use lithium batteries that last 10 years.
- Smoke alarms should be installed on all levels of the home.
- The manufacturer recommends replacing the smoke alarm every 10 years.
- It is dangerous to disable your smoke alarm when you are cooking.
In the event of an emergency, every second is crucial. You can escape your house quickly with an emergency plan. You should practise your fire escape plan at least twice a year. When preparing the plan, you should consider:
- If the main exit is blocked due to fire or smoke, find two alternative ways out.
- Make sure the windows can be opened easily, that screens are easy to remove and security bars can also be removed.
- You can also practise navigating your home in the dark with closed eyes.
- Check all doorways to make sure that you are able to get in with a wheelchair or walker.
- A fire extinguisher should be kept in the kitchen.
- Install an automatic sprinkler system at your home.
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