Fires continue to be a major cause of deaths, injuries, and property damage. Because fires typically occur with little or no warning, and can escalate rapidly, the best plan is to be well prepared. Wherever you are, follow your evacuation plan or instructions from designated emergency personnel. Always use stairs, never use elevators which can become dangerous in a fire situation. Do not try to take personal belongings. Evacuate immediately using a safe exit; remain calm but do not waste any time. When you have exited the building, proceed to a designated assembly area and check-in for a head count. Wait at the assembly area for instructions. Once you have left the area of the fire, do not return for any reason.
Know the locations of:
- Fire alarm pull stations
- Fire extinguishers
- Emergency exit routes
- Muster points
- Telephones
- First aid kits
- Areas of refuge (safe areas to go if unable to get out of the building)
- People in their area who might require assistance during an evacuation; in particular seniors and people with disabilities
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) the 2016 U.S. fire loss clock a fire department responded to a fire every 24 seconds. One structure fire was reported every 66 seconds.
- One home structure fire was reported every 90 seconds
- One civilian fire injury was reported every 34 minutes
- One civilian fire death occurred every 2 hours and 35 minutes
- One outside and other fire was reported every 48 seconds
- One highway vehicle fire was reported every 3 minutes 2 seconds
The Safety Moment bulletin is a periodic communication on safety issues from the G4S Americas Safety Group.
