What to do in case of fire 

If there was a fire at your home, would you know what to do? For your safety and that of your family, it’s essential to know the right practices by heart. 

How to prepare well 

In case of evacuation, every second counts. That’s why good preparation makes all the difference. 

Here are 7 things to do to prepare: 

1. Define a meeting point outside your home.
   • Choose a location as close as possible to the street and as far as possible from the house to protect yourself from explosions or other possible complications. By meeting at the same place, you’ll avoid searching for each other. 
2. Identify exits from your residence.
   • Clearly write them on your evacuation plan. 
3. Follow your evacuation plan.
   • Every person in the residence should know how to exit from their bedroom, kitchen, living room, basement, and all other rooms. 
4. Teach your children not to hide.
   • Not under their bed or anywhere else in the building. Your children should also learn not to run away from firefighters. Parents should also agree in advance on their responsibilities for their children (for example, one parent takes the children outside, the other grabs the bag ready to go).
5. Prepare a go-bag.
   • You should always have a go-bag ready at home. To know what to include, check our list. 
6. Keep exits clear at all times.
   • It’s crucial that doors are always snow-free and clear of obstacles. If you are the owner of a building with tenants, it’s your responsibility to clear emergency exits for your tenants. 
7. Ensure that your residence is easily identifiable.
   • It’s important that your civic number is visible from the street. During winter, make sure it’s not hidden by a carport or snow buildup. 

How to evacuate your home in case of fire 

• Call 911.
• Always stay calm and leave quickly. 
• If there is smoke, crawl to the door you’ve planned to use. Stay low to the ground. This will protect you from the smoke’s effects and reduce the risk of falling. 
• Check the doors with the back of your hand before opening them. If they are hot, leave them closed. This is a sign that the fire is nearby. 
• Close the doors and windows behind you to prevent the fire from spreading. 
• Never go back inside the house, whether to save a person, a pet, or to retrieve your belongings. It is crucial never to put your life or others’ at risk. 
• If you can’t use the door identified in your evacuation plan, try to reach a window or balcony. Place a sheet or a white cloth (preferably) there to alert firefighters to your presence. 
• At your outdoor meeting point, make sure everyone in your family is there. 
• Don’t let anyone go back inside before receiving permission from the authorities.