Fires move very fast. That’s why it is crucial for you to know what to do in case a fire breaks out in your home, in a building, or some other place.

First, act quickly, and walk calmly and don’t panic. Panicking will only make the situation worse.

Second, activate the installed fire alarm to notify others of the need to evacuate. The activated fire alarm will also signal the nearest fire department to come to the rescue at the soonest possible time.

Third, safely operate any available fire extinguisher. However, make sure that you are properly trained to use a fire extinguisher before you try to fight a fire. ·

Fourth, get out of the fire scene, and quickly call 911 or your local emergency hotline number. You have to stay with someone who’s injured and wait for help to arrive.

Fifth, if first responders haven’t arrived at the scene yet, yell “fire!” several times and go outside right away for your safety. Doing this will call the attention of as many people nearby in seeking additional help.

Sixth, if all else fails, go to a specified meeting place and send one person to immediately call the fire department. Gathering in a specific outside location will quickly let you know who is outside, and allow you to advise firefighters of who may need help and their probable location inside.

Last but not the least, if you cannot get to your meeting place, follow your community emergency communication plan, esp. for your family. When fire strikes, your family might not be together, therefore, it is important to plan how you will contact one another and discuss how you will communicate in case of a fire.