1 Switch off power
2Smother flames
1 Evacuate
2Summon help
1 Approach fire
2Smother flames
FIRES IN THE HOME
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PUTTING OUT AN ELECTRICAL FIRE
1 Switch off power
• Unplug the burning appliance or, if you cannot safely reach the wall socket, turn the power off at the fusebox.
• If a computer monitor or television is on fire, the screen could explode: protect yourself by approaching it from the back or the side.
2Smother flames
• Drape a fire blanket over the appliance to stifle the fire, or douse the flames with a dry chemical fire extinguisher( see box opposite).
Place the fire blanket over the burning monitor from behind
DEALING WITH A CHIMNEY FIRE
1 Evacuate
• Many chimney fires are explosive; bricks become projectiles that move like cannonballs.
• Do not try to extinguish the fire. Evacuate the house immediately.
2Summon help
• Dial 911 or call the fire department immediately.
• Ensure that the chimney is checked and cleared by a chimneysweep before you light another fire in the grate.
PUTTING OUT A SKILLET FIRE
1 Approach fire
• Turn off the heat supply.
• Do not attempt to move the pan: the flames may blow toward you.
• Do not put water on a fire that is in a skillet or deep fryer: the water will disperse the burning fat and spread the fire.
2Smother flames
• Cover the flames with a fire blanket( see box opposite). If you do not have a fire blanket, use a towel or dishcloth that has been wrung out in water.
Protect your hands as you approach a burning skillet