In The Event Of Fire –
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue offer the following advice –
- In the event of a fire, if it’s safe to do so, get out, stay out and call 999.
- Alert neighbours who might be affected by the fire e.g. nearby thatched cottages, terraced or semi-detached properties etc.
- If it’s not safe to leave, get everyone into a room away from the fire, ideally with a window that can open. Close the door, and put something across the bottom to keep smoke out.
- Follow the fire survival guidance given by the Fire Control call handler.
Good Practice To Prevent A Fire
- Have a bedtime routine, making sure internal doors are closed throughout the property.
- Plan and practise your escape route.
- Make sure you always have a phone available on whatever level of the home you are. If mobile phone signal isn’t very good, have an alternative way of raising the alarm, such as a landline.
- Have smoke alarms fitted on every level of the home and test them regularly.
- Use candles carefully.
- Have your chimney swept regularly.
More advice on bedtime routines, planning your escape and what to do in the event of a fire can be found at www.dwfire.org.uk/safety-at-home
Most, if not all fire and rescue services, offer what is commonly known as a Safe and Well visit, some fire and rescues may still call them Home Fire Risk Assessments or Home Fire Safety Checks. They can sound daunting to many people, especially the elderly. However, click here to discover what they entail and how you can go about arranging to have one carried out.
The Danger Of Smoke
Smoke is a killer.
If someone has breathed in smoke or fumes, they should get medical attention. Some symptoms of smoke inhalation may be delayed and can include:
- coughing
- a sore throat
- difficulty breathing
- facial burns
KEEVIL VILLAGE 