Picture of Loch Sunart



Make an Escape Plan

You are twice as likely to die in a house fire in Scotland than in any other part of the UK. MAKING AN ESCAPE PLAN FOR YOUR HOME COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE.

You don't need to be an expert. Just think it through.

How would you get everyone out at night?
How would you get the children, eldery or vulnerable out?
Then tell everyone what the plan is. Practice as a family. You could live to regret it if you don't.

EXPECT THE WORST
  • Close all doors, especially at night. It will help to keep your escape route clear of smoke and heat. A closed door can keep fire back for 10 to 20 minutes.
  • Make sure your smoke alarm is working. Check and test every week.

PLAN A - When your escape route is clear

Get everyone out as quickly as you can. A life is worth more than the most valuable thing you own.

Do not look for the fire!

If you can, and its safe to do so, close the door of the room where the fire is to slow down the spread of fire.

When you get out, stay out!
 
  • Phone the fire and rescue service. Dial 999
  • Alert your neighbours
  • Never try to go back inside until the firefighters tell you it is safe

PLAN B - If you cannot get out

Get everyone into one room (if possible one with a phone). This is your 'safe' room. But never open a door if it is warm to touch.

When everyone is in the room, pack clothes, cushions, pillows or towels around the door to keep smoke out.

Open a window and shout until someone calls the fire and rescue service. Stay at the open window.

If you are on the first floor, you might be able to drop some pillows or cushions and then lower yourself from the windowsill. But only ever attempt this a last resort.

If there are two adults, one should go first to catch the children. Pass them slowly and stretch full length before you let them go.

No one should ever jump!

If you are on a higher floor, lean out of the window for fresh air until the firefighters arrive.

9 Steps to Safety
 
  • Plan your escape route now. Practise with your family.
  • If a fire starts, shout to warn everyone in the house.
  • Get out quickly. Don’t stop for valuables.
  • Keep low down. Air is cleaner and cooler nearer the floor.
  • Do not look for the fire - keep doors closed.
  • If you can't escape, get everyone in a safe room.
  • Never jump out of a window - if you can, lower yourself onto cushions. But only ever attempt this as a last resort.
  • When you are out, stay out!
  • Phone the fire and rescue service.