WHAT TO DO DURING A FIRE OUTBREAK AT YOUR WORKPLACE?

No workplace is immune to fire outbreaks! Whether it’s a multi-storey commercial building or one-room working space, the possibilities of a (sudden) fire accident cannot be overlooked.

Such accidents can result in mammoth loss of lives, property, jobs and thousands of dollars, causing the downfall of your business.

In some of our previous blogs, we have talked extensively about the fire safety checklist to ensure a fire-safe workplace. Here, we shall go through a list of things you should do during a fire:

1. Prevention is Better than Cure

Fire catastrophes are preventable if your employees are trained to handle such accidents. Comprehensive fire safety training plays a pivotal role in restricting the intensity of (lives and property) damage caused by an inferno. Contact fire service companies in Melbourne to arrange regular drills and training programs for your employees.

2. Spotted Fire? Raise the Alarm Immediately

An alarm should be instantly raised on discovering signs of fire. Regardless of how small or innocuous it appears, even a small flame can turn into a blaze within seconds. If the fire is controllable and not too intense, use a fire extinguisher to put it off. (It is recommended to use it only when you’re adequately trained).

If you find the inferno going out of control, alert all employees and guide them through safe exists using an evacuation plan. Call firefighting services to limit the damage to the property and casualties.

3. Evacuate to Safety

It is essential to maintain your composure and remain calm while evacuating the property. Make sure everyone is gathered at a designated assembly point.

If your workplace has hazardous machinery, ensure you’ve shut it down. It is advised not to stop in the way or go back to collect any personal belongings. Moreover, avoid using lifts; they can stop working, trapping you inside and exposing you to flames and toxic gases.

If your escape route is full of thick smoke, it’s advised to drop down on the ground and crawl. The air closer to the ground is usually clean and safe for breathing.

What to Do If You Get Trapped Inside a Smoke-Filled Room?

If you are trapped in the room filled with thick smoke, try and get to a place with a window.

In case, you’re on the first floor, open the window and lower yourself to an arm’s length. Gently drop yourself to the floor. Never ever jump from a window. If you’re trapped on a top storey, stand near the window. This will help firefighters to reach you easily.

Block any crevices under the doors to prevent smoke from coming in.

If your clothes catch fire, don’t panic and run around since this fans the flame. In such a situation, just remember the golden rule:

Stop in your place, drop to the ground and roll over to douse the flames.

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