Fire Prevention and Preparedness

Fire prevention involves reducing or eliminating situations that may start a fire. Many fires are caused by human negligence, faulty electrical systems, or improper handling of flammable materials.

Common fire prevention practices include:

• Avoid overloading electrical outlets.
  
  

• Inspect electrical wiring regularly.
  
  

• Turn off appliances when not in use.
  
  

• Store flammable liquids away from heat sources.
  
  

• Never leave cooking unattended.
  
  

• Dispose of combustible materials properly.
  
  

• Install smoke detectors and fire alarms.
  
  

Preparedness also includes knowing the location of emergency exits and participating in fire drills.

Basic Fire Response Steps

When a fire occurs, individuals must act quickly and follow proper procedures.

1. Raise the Alarm

Immediately alert everyone by activating the fire alarm or shouting to warn others about the fire.

2. Evacuate the Area

Leave the building using the nearest safe exit. Do not run, push, or return to collect personal belongings.

3. Call Emergency Authorities

Contact the appropriate emergency responders such as the Bureau of Fire Protection to report the incident.

4. Proceed to the Assembly Area

Move to the designated safe location outside the building and wait for further instructions.

Fire Response Techniques

Certain techniques help protect individuals during fire emergencies.

Stop, Drop, and Roll

This method is used when a person’s clothes catch fire.

Steps:

1. Stop moving immediately.
   
   

2. Drop to the ground.
   
   

3. Roll back and forth to extinguish the flames.
   
   

Rolling helps smother the flames by cutting off the oxygen supply.

Crawling Under Smoke

Smoke rises during a fire, leaving cleaner air closer to the ground. During evacuation, individuals should crawl while covering their nose and mouth to avoid inhaling smoke.

Firefighting Equipment

Different firefighting tools are used to control or extinguish fires.

Fire Extinguisher

A fire extinguisher is used to control small fires before they spread.

The PASS method is used when operating a fire extinguisher:

• P – Pull the safety pin
  
  

• A – Aim at the base of the fire
  
  

• S – Squeeze the handle
  
  

• S – Sweep from side to side
  
  

Fire Blanket

A fire blanket is used to smother small fires by cutting off oxygen.

Fire Alarm

Fire alarms detect smoke or heat and alert people to evacuate immediately.

Fire Drills and Evacuation Planning

Fire drills help individuals practice proper emergency response. Schools, workplaces, and communities conduct regular fire drills to prepare people for real emergencies.

An effective evacuation plan includes:

• Clearly marked emergency exits
  
  

• Alarm systems
  
  

• Designated assembly areas
  
  

• Assigned responsibilities for safety personnel
  
  

• Regular evacuation practice
  
  

Practicing fire drills reduces panic and ensures an organized evacuation during emergencies.

Emergency Communication

Communication during a fire emergency is critical. Emergency responders must be informed immediately to control the situation.

The Bureau of Fire Protection is responsible for fire suppression, rescue operations, and fire investigation. Providing accurate information such as the location and severity of the fire helps emergency responders act quickly.