The most important rule in case of fire is to get out and stay outside. In reality, of course, you'll take a look at it first to make sure there really is a fire and to see how bad it is before you get your family together and lead them out.
In some cases this is a fatal error. It is important to know the difference between a small and a large fire. The good thing is that you can walk past the smoke instead of getting to the source of the fire.
Little smoke, but your smoke alarm goes off
If so, you hope it's just a false positive. Even the best smoke alarms can go wrong. However, buying from reputable fire protection equipment suppliers will reduce the likelihood of this. If there is very little or no smoke, you can tell the other people in the house to get out while you look at the source of the fire. Small fires can be fixed with a fire extinguisher. You should have one at home. Just follow the directions on the label and aim at the base of the fire. Don't forget that there are different types of fire extinguishers. The correct one should be used. For example, water fire extinguishers will not work on electrical fires. It is advisable to take a course on the use and understanding of fire extinguishers. If there is a lot of smoke, don't take the risk, get out and call the fire department.
Defensive steps
In addition to a fire extinguisher, smoke alarm, and various other fire protection equipment, you need to know the correct defensive measures that you should take.
You should draw an escape plan today. The aim is to create a drawing of your house and two exit routes from every room in the house. Everyone living in the house should be able to see the map, and when the smoke alarm goes off, they should get off on one of the two routes available. It's a good idea to test your escape plan and check that both routes are possible. This will help everyone know what to do, even when faced with a wall of smoke.
A high number of house fires start with faulty electrical systems. You can reduce the risk by having an annual electrical inspection.
Professional checks your cabling, sorts short circuits and overloads and ensures that there is no risk of fire. It's worth spending a few dollars on an electrical inspection every year if that prevents a fire from starting.
Final thoughts
Fire is dangerous and the best way to defend yourself against it is to be aware of all the things in your home that can cause a fire and treat them with respect. If you take care of your home, reduce the risk, and create an escape plan, you may never have to deal with a home fire.
