Be prepared for an emergency

It is difficult to think clearly in an emergency. Working smoke alarms will warn you of a fire, but you should also make a fire escape plan. Preparing and practising an escape plan will mean you and your family know what to do.

Step 1: Make a plan and practice it

1. Involve everyone who lives in your home, including lodgers.
2. Plan routes for each person out of the house and alternatives in case that route is blocked. Also plan where to go if all exits are blocked. 
3. Your usual way in and out of your home is the best escape route but keep all exits clear of obstructions.
4. If there are children, older or disabled people or pets, plan how you will get them out.
5. If you live in a flat, remember the lift will be out of action if there is a fire. Choose an escape route that does not require one. Regularly check that you can open the fire and security doors.
6. Leave your address by the phone so that children can read it out to the emergency services if needed.
7. Make sure everyone knows where the keys for doors and windows are kept.
8. Make sure everyone understands what to do it by practising and reviewing the plan regularly.

Plan where to go if you can’t get out

1. Get everyone into one room and close the door.
2. Put cushions, towels or bedding at the bottom of the door to block smoke. 
3. If the fire is directly outside your door, seal it with tape if you can.
4. If you can, wet the door down.
5. Open the window for fresh air. 
6. Call 999 if you can, or get someone else to make the call. Shout or wave something out of the window to get attention.
7. If you are on the ground floor or, in some circumstances, the first floor, you may be able to escape through the window. Do not jump from higher windows.