What to Do If Your Business Has a Fire

Do you know what to do if your business has a fire?

Following the tips below will help you safely get through the ordeal.

• Keep calm – The worst thing that you can do is panic. Try to keep a level head, so you can think clearly.

• Use a fire extinguisher for small fires – If it’s a small fire, use a fire extinguisher. However, if the fire is out of control, get out of the building.

• Don’t worry about processions – You might feel compelled to grab your laptop or other valuables in the event of a fire. Don’t let that stuff weigh you down. You can always replace a computer. Exit the building.

• Stay low to the ground – To avoid smoke inhalation, crouch down or crawl as you make your way to the exit. The smoke and poisonous air is often what kills people during a fire.

• Check for hot spots – Head for an exit that is not near the fire. Before opening any closed doors, check to see if the door is warm. It’s possible the fire could be on the other side of the door.

• Stop, drop and roll – If your clothes should happen to catch fire, stop, drop and roll.

• Call 911 – Once you’re safely out of the building, call 911. Many people make the mistake of calling while they’re still inside the building. It’s more important to save lives.

• Don’t be a hero – Once you’re outside, don’t go back into the building. Wait for the firefighters. They have the necessary equipment to find people who haven’t made it out.

Your business should discuss fire safety with employees at least twice a year. Be sure to cover tips to prevent business fires, fire exit plans and even run a fire drill.

At Hue & Cry, Inc., we offer affordable fire alarm monitoring, testing and inspection services for businesses in California and Oregon. To learn more, visit our webpage on fire alarm systems. You can also call us at 1-800-762-3196.