The fire is a serious disaster that can spread in nearby buildings. Be careful !
• 1 out of 4 fires are caused by electricity: do not overload a power line by connecting too many devices all at once.
• 1 out of 6 fires is due to smoking accidents: do not smoke in bed, do not empty an ashtray too quickly.
• 1 out of 8 fires starts in the kitchen: watch mainly frying pans and stoves.
In the event of a fire outbreak
Do not panic !
If the start of fire comes from a neighbor’s home, open all your windows, close the shutters, put buckets and basins full of water behind them and as soon as you see a sparkle of fire throw the water on it.
If the fire starts in your own home
• A curtain begins to catch on fire: take a basin of water and water everything. A glass of water in the thirty seconds after a fire begins avoids the water cannon of a firefighter twenty minutes later!
• A wastebasket catches fire: jump with your feet together or put a blanket over it (the fire stops as soon as it has no more oxygen).
• In case of extensive fire
• Close all exits from the room where the fire is located, including windows. This avoids the rapid spread of fire and protects against asphyxiation caused by smoke.
• Put rags, if possible wet, at the bottom of the doors to slow down the air supply.
• Put a damp cloth over your face to protect yourself from smoke emanations.
• Call the fire department and, above all, do not jump out the window!
These precautions should protect you during the time needed for firefighters to arrive.
From Claire de Circourt Book
Photo by Issy Bailey