14 Aug What To Do In Case of Fire

What to Do in Case of Fire

A fire can spread rapidly, producing intense heat, smoke, and toxic gases. Knowing what to do before a fire occurs can prevent injuries and save lives. Employees should be familiar with the company’s Emergency Action Plan, evacuation routes, alarm procedures, and designated assembly areas.

Sound the Alarm

If you discover a fire:

• Warn others and activate the fire alarm or other established emergency notification system.
• Contact the fire department or emergency services in accordance with company procedures.
• From a safe location, provide the location and approximate size of the fire and any known hazards, such as chemicals, fuels, or compressed-gas cylinders.
• Never delay evacuation or place yourself in danger while reporting a fire.

Decide Whether to Use an Extinguisher

Employees should attempt to extinguish a fire only when company policy permits it and they have been trained and authorized to use portable fire extinguishers.

Only consider fighting a fire when:

• The alarm has been sounded and emergency assistance has been requested.
• The fire is small and in its beginning or incipient stage.
• You know what material is burning.
• You have the correct type of extinguisher.
• You have been trained to use the extinguisher.
• Smoke, heat, or toxic fumes do not present an immediate danger.
• You have a clear and unobstructed escape route behind you.

If there is any doubt about your ability to safely extinguish the fire, evacuate.

Use the Correct Extinguisher

Different types of fires require appropriate extinguishing agents. Never use an extinguisher unless it is suitable for the material involved.

Never use water on energized electrical equipment or on fires involving flammable liquids where the water could spread the burning material.

When using a portable extinguisher, remember PASS:

• P – Pull the pin.
• A – Aim at the base of the fire.
• S – Squeeze the operating handle.
• S – Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire.

Stop immediately and evacuate if the extinguisher is ineffective, runs out of agent, the fire begins spreading, smoke or heat becomes dangerous, or your escape route is threatened.

Evacuate Safely

When evacuation is required:

• Follow the company’s Emergency Action Plan.
• Use designated evacuation routes and exits.
• Do not use elevators unless specifically authorized by the emergency plan.
• Close doors behind you when practical, but do not lock them.
• Do not stop to retrieve personal belongings.
• Proceed directly to the designated assembly area.
• Report for accountability or head count.
• Never re-enter the building or work area until authorized by emergency personnel.

Do not attempt a rescue that would place you in danger. Report the location of anyone believed to be trapped or missing to emergency responders.

Prevent Workplace Fires

Fire prevention begins before an emergency occurs.

• Keep fire extinguishers, alarm stations, exits, and evacuation routes visible and unobstructed.
• Maintain good housekeeping and promptly remove combustible waste.
• Place oily or solvent-contaminated rags in approved covered containers.
• Properly store flammable and combustible liquids in approved containers and designated storage areas.
• Keep ignition sources away from flammable materials.
• Do not refuel gasoline-powered equipment while it is hot or near ignition sources.
• Inspect electrical cords, plugs, receptacles, and equipment for damage.
• Do not overload electrical circuits or receptacles.
• Report unusual electrical odors, overheating, sparking, or damaged equipment immediately.
• Follow required hot-work procedures when welding, cutting, grinding, or performing other spark- or flame-producing work.

Be Prepared

Know the location of fire alarms, emergency exits, assembly areas, and portable fire extinguishers before an emergency occurs. Review emergency procedures periodically so you know what to do without having to search for instructions during a fire.

Remember

Your first priority during a fire is personal safety and evacuation—not protecting equipment or property. Sound the alarm, follow the Emergency Action Plan, and fight only a small, beginning-stage fire when you are trained, authorized, properly equipped, and have a safe escape route.