Most firefighting is best left to professionals, whether a trained group in the facility or the local fire department. However, some small contained fires can be handled with the portable fire extinguishers located throughout the company.
ELEMENTS OF FIRE
1. CLEAR anyone in immediate danger.
2. CONFINE the fire by closing all doors to the area.
3. Notify the Office Manager to call the Fire Department if necessary.
4. Use a fire extinguisher IF safe to do so and if trained. NEVER attempt to put out a fire alone. Use the “buddy” system. Be sure to use the right type of extinguisher.
5. EVACUATE. Walk to the closest exit and proceed outside to the Safe Refuge Area.
If you are notified of a fire:
1. Feel the door to see if it is hot.
IF THE DOOR IS HOT:
a) DO NOT OPEN IT.
b) Use alternate door.
c) If there is no alternate door and you cannot evacuate-
SHELTER IN PLACE
· Get as far away from the fire as you can. Closing all doors between you and the fire.
· Seal the bottom of the door with cloth material to keep out smoke.
· If water is available, wet cloths and seal the door and any vents.
· Signal at the window waving a bright colored material.
· If there is smoke in the room:
a) Stay low – air is cooler and cleaner closer to the floor.
b) Hold a cloth over your mouth and nose.
c) Do not break the window – once broken it cannot be closed. If there is smoke outside the window, the smoke may enter into the room you are in. Breaking a window should only be done as a last resort.
REMAIN CALM - HELP IS ON THE WAY
2. Feel the door to see if it is hot. IF NOT HOT, open cautiously.
a) Stand behind the door, be prepared to close quickly.
b) Alert others as you evacuate.
c) If there is no smoke present, proceed to your Emergency Exit. Evacuate and proceed to the Safe Refuge Area.
d) If you do encounter smoke, crawl on your hands and knees along the wall to a safe Emergency Exit. Evacuate the building and proceed to the Safe Refuge Area.
e) Follow instructions from Emergency Personnel. |
