FireFire

A fire occurs when flames get out of control and begin to burn objects such as curtains or furniture. It can spread very quickly. Smoke is toxic, makes rooms dark and makes breathing difficult, so knowing how to react in time is vital.

Warning signs

• Smoke or a burning smell may be the first warning.
• A sudden rise in temperature.
• Flames or the glow of a fire.
• A loud smoke-alarm beep: get out even if you cannot see flames yet.

How can one start?

• Playing with matches, lighters or candles.
• Bringing a flame close to paper, costumes, sofas, curtains or other things that burn easily.
• Leaving a candle or heat source unattended, even for a short time.

• Shout “Fire!” to warn others and leave immediately by the nearest safe route.
• Do not hide under a bed or inside a wardrobe: firefighters need to be able to find you.
• If there is smoke, get low and move underneath it towards the exit.
• Before opening a closed door, use the back of your hand to check whether it is hot. If it is, do not open it; use another exit.
• Do not waste time looking for toys, belongings or pets.
• Once outside, go to your meeting place, call 112 or your local emergency number with an adult's help, and never go back inside.

If smoke, heat or flames block every exit, stay in a room with the door closed, move away from the fire and call for help from a window or by phone.

• Fire is not a game: never touch matches, lighters or candles; tell an adult if you find them.
• Homes should have working smoke alarms that an adult tests regularly.
• Learn two possible ways out of every room and choose an outdoor family meeting place.
• Practise the escape plan with your family so you can act calmly.
• If your clothes catch fire: stop, drop to the ground and roll until the flames are out.