In the event of a fire in your home or workplace, every second counts. During a fire, it's essential to know what to take and when to get out to ensure your safety and the well-being of those around you.
In this blog, we'll discuss the items you should prioritise grabbing during a fire evacuation and guide you on assembling an emergency bag so you’re prepared should the worst happen.
Fire Evacuation Plan
The most important thing to have in case of a fire is a predetermined evacuation plan, with all household/workplace members being familiar with it. Such plans will help you identify primary and secondary escape routes, as well as the ability to set up designated meeting point outside the building.
For helpful information on how to plan your escape route, check out our ‘How To Choose Your Fire Escape Routes’ blog.
Immediate Priorities in a Fire
If a fire breaks out in your home, your primary focus should be on ensuring the safety of yourself and your loved ones. If safe to do so, you should then collect the following items:
Communication Devices
Ensure you have your mobile phone or a designated communication device readily available to call emergency services.
Keys
Grab your house and car keys, as they will be necessary for re-entry or relocation if required.
Pets
If possible, gather your pets and bring them to safety. Ensure they are properly secured in a carrier or on a lead.
Creating an Emergency Bag
To expedite the evacuation process and safeguard your important documents, assemble an emergency bag containing the following essentials:
Important Documents
Include copies of identification documents, birth certificates, passports, insurance policies, wills, property deeds, and any other crucial legal or financial documents. Consider placing them in a waterproof folder or protective sleeve.
Cash and Cards
Keep a small amount of cash and important credit/debit cards in your emergency bag to provide immediate access to funds during and after the evacuation.
Medications
Include a supply of essential medications, along with a list of prescriptions and dosages. Ensure they are stored in a cool, dry place and regularly replenished.
First Aid Kit
Prepare a compact first aid kit containing bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.
Clothing and Toiletries
Pack a change of clothes, including undergarments and comfortable footwear. Don't forget personal hygiene items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, and soap.
Food and Water
Include non-perishable food items such as energy bars, canned goods, and bottled water.
Prioritising Safety
While it's tempting to try and retrieve as many belongings as possible, there are situations where it's best to prioritise your safety and leave everything behind:
Impeding Fire
If the fire is already spreading rapidly or blocking your exit route, it is crucial to evacuate immediately. Don't waste precious time gathering belongings.
Toxic Smoke
Smoke inhalation is one of the most significant risks during a fire. If the smoke is thick or spreading quickly, leave immediately and avoid exposure.
Structural Instability
If you notice signs of structural damage, such as collapsing walls or ceilings, it's essential to evacuate swiftly. The safety of you and those around you should be the utmost priority.
Be Prepared for The Worst with Label Source
It’s essential to have a fire evacuation plan for your home or business. Here, at Label Source, we have a wide range of fire safety signs will ensure that everybody knows where to go and what to do. Our fire safety range contains a wide variety of products, from emergency access signs to fire action notices and equipment markers for fire extinguishers.
All of our emergency access/fire safety signs are produced to UK, EU and international standards, including ISO EN 7010, BS 5499 and the Safety Signs and Signals Regulations 1996.
