Everyone should know four things
- How to raise the alarm
- The escape routes from their work area
- Where the assembly point is
- Who is responsible for coordinating evacuation and contacting the emergency services
In India, the national emergency number is 112. Call it as soon as a fire is discovered, even if you think it is under control.
Keep escape routes usable
Escape routes and exits must stay unobstructed and unlocked when the building is occupied, with clear signage and lighting. Fire doors should close properly and must not be wedged open.
Practise
Evacuation drills show whether the plan works in practice: whether the alarm can be heard everywhere, whether people use the right routes and how long evacuation takes. Record the results and fix what does not work.
Fight a fire only if it is safe
Trained people may use an extinguisher on a small fire, but only after the alarm has been raised, if they have a clear escape route behind them and the fire is not spreading. If in doubt, get out and stay out.
