Protect Yourself in a Fire
In a fire, you and your family have less than 3 minutes to get out safely before the poisonous gases in the smoke overcome you. If you hear a smoke alarm, smell smoke or see flames … get out, stay out and call 9-1-1!
The best way to protect yourself in a fire is to prepare for one by:
- Installing smoke alarms
- Preparing and practicing your fire escape plan
- Educating your family and babysitters about your fire escape plan
As well, you may wish to take photos or a video of your home’s interior and store them at a friend’s or family member’s home. In the event of a fire, photos will assist an adjuster in settling claims and will help prove uninsured losses.
If your clothing catches on fire
If it’s you:
- Stop, drop, and roll. By dropping to the ground and rolling, you can smother the flames. Protect your face with your hands.
- When flames are extinguished, get immediate medical help.
If it is someone else:
- Do not let the person run. Running provides the fire with more air to burn.
- Stop the person by tripping or grabbing him/her if necessary.
- Drop the person to the ground.
- Roll the person to extinguish the flames. If available, smother the flames by using your coat or blanket.
- Once flames are extinguished, get immediate medical help.
After a fire
- Seek medical help if you are injured or someone in your family is injured.
- Arrange for temporary housing if required and notify important contacts of your temporary address and phone number.
- Contact your insurance agent and work with him/her and other agencies to salvage, clean-up, and repair damage.
- Expect to feel different for a while. Talk about your feelings; seek counselling if necessary.