Emergency Basics - Know What To Do

Knowing what to do in a fire could save your life.

Read on to find out what experts advise you should do if the worst ever happens.

If a fire starts, shout to warn everyone in the house.
Get out quickly and don't stop for valuables - a life is more precious than any thing you own.
Keep low down - air is cleaner and cooler nearer the floor.
Don't look for the fire - keep doors closed.
If you can't escape, get everyone in a safe room.
Never jump out of a window - if you can, lower yourself onto cushions. But only ever attempt this as a last resort.
When you're out, stay out
Phone the Fire & Rescue service on 999
Alert your neighbours
Don't go back inside until the firefighters tell you it's safe

Get everyone into one room (if possible one with a phone). This is your 'safe' room.
Never open a door if it's warm to touch - there could be a fire inside
When everyone's in the room, pack clothes, cushions, pillows or towels around the door to keep smoke out
Open a window and shout until someone calls 999 for the Fire and Rescue Service
Stay at the open window
If you're on the first floor, you might be able to drop some pillows or cushions and then lower yourself from the windowsill. But only ever attempt this as a last resort.
If there are two adults, one should go first to catch children. Pass them slowly and stretch full length before you let them go.
No-one should ever jump
If you're on a higher floor, lean out of the window for fresh air until the firefighters arrive

if your own clothes catch fire, stop, drop and roll until they go out
if another person's clothes catch fire, wrap them in a fire blanket to smother the flames
if you don't have a fire blanket, wrap the person in a coat, rug or blanket to smother the flames