Don't Get Burned - Do's and Don'ts To Fire Safety

When it comes to fires, this year got off to a blazing start. Since the start of the year, there were numbers of fire incidents happened already that claim lives and properties. Most of them are in suburb areas and squatters area or what we call illegal settlers.

Most fires are caused by negligence such as leaving burning candles which is the major cause in squatter areas fires wherein they don't have electricity, or plugged-in appliances unattended. Prevention is still the key as per most of the fire fighters and fire safety group advocacy. Here are some of the basic advice i collated from all of them for us to stay fire-free or prevent fire incidents.

1. Have a fire exit.  When designing and building your home, make sure it conforms to fire and building codes. Is there a fire escape or a window to exit? Your window maybe barred but make sure the grills have an access point (with the padlock key hung nearby).

2. Have a plan.  Establish an escape route, a meeting point and a roll call or buddy system. To remain effective, conduct a fire drill to familiarize your family on the fastest and safest ways out.

3. Prepare for an emergency bag.  Keep important documents (like passports, land titles, bank papers, etc.) in a yellow or orange carryall. If you must evacuate, the bright-colored bag can be easily spotted and carried out.

4. Regularly check and maintain electrical wirings, as well as LPG tanks, stoves and stove valves--the three in order to prevent gas leaks.

5. Post emergency numbers beside each of your telephones at home to make it easy to report a blaze. When calling in, give the exact location of the fire, your complete address, and the nearest corner or any landmarks.

Of course, a fire could stil break out despite your best precautions. What should you do if you get caught in one? Don't panic is the first rule. Just calmly follow the procedure you and your family have agreed on.

Here's more valuable tips:

• Evacuate immediately.  Make sure to alert everybody by shouting, "Sunog!" ("Fire!")

• Watch where you go.  Before opening a door, check for heat using the back of your palm. If the knob is cool enough to touch, its safe to open. If the corridor is starting to fill with smoke, crawl out to the nearest exit. The space between the floor and the smoke offers some breathable air. Use a piece of cloth to cover your nose and mouth to keep you from inhaling the smoke.

         If the door is hot to touch, do not open it--the may already be on the other side. Use a wet towel or blanket to block the base of the door and bar any smoke. Stay near the windows and scream or do whatever it takes to call the attention of the firefighters and rescuers.

• Just leave your things. When you have successfully escaped a burning house, do not return for anything. Lives are top priority, not material things.

• Do a head count. In case a family member is missing, inform the firefighters as soon as they arrive, explain in detail the ins and outs of your house, and let the firefighters do their job.