St. Clair Shores
Fire Fighters
Local 1744
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Up		 Before a Fire
Things you should know before a fire

Plan For a Fire Before it Occurs

Know the location of exits
Recognize the sound of the alarm
Know how to activate the alarm (usually located at exits)
Know how to notify the fire department
Have a meeting place outside
Participate in fire drills and know your plan

If You Discover a Fire

Sound the alarm and exit
Close all doors behind you, especially doors behind fire
Proceed directly to safest exit
Do not use elevators
Leave the building

Exit Drills

Develop a Fire Escape Plan & practice the drill (most don't, because they don't have a plan)
Know how to activate the alarm
Know the location of fire extinguishers and how to use them
Have two avenues of escape
Know your emergency numbers
Designate a safe meeting place
Where is your nearest fire hydrant? Is it snowed over?

Once You Are Out, Stay Out!!!

When the smoke detector sounds, you have less than 4 minutes to get out
Most who die in fires die of smoke inhalation
Fire itself is a serious hazard
Fire frequently generates temperatures to 1500 F
Remember, water boils at 212 F
Most foods cook at about 350 F
There is always the possibility of flashover
As well as carbon monoxide, there are many toxic gases
The longer you stay in, the more your judgment will be impaired

What to do if Your Escape Route is Blocked by Fire or Smoke

Crawl low in smoke (try to hold your breath)
If trapped in a room:
feel doors with the back of your hand to test for heat (if no heat open the door cautiously)
close all doors behind you
seal cracks around doors and windows ( a wet towel will work )
signal at window to rescuers
open outside windows at top and bottom
shut off fans and air conditioners