How to Save Your Things during a Fire
11/17/2021 (Permalink)
How to Save Your Things during a Fire
Many people are tragically killed every year by smoke inhalation following the onset of a fire, without ever being directly affected by flames. Some simply panic and run around in circles while others seem to be unaware that they are actually in any immediate danger at all. The chances of someone surviving inside a house fire based on their actions or knowledge before it starts cannot be under estimated, yet most fires do not give us much warning when they start.
If you can grab a few simple items with you during your escape from a burning building—like your car keys, purse, wallet and cell phone—you'll have everything you need to stay connected until rescue personnel arrive. In addition, having them will allow you to make a more accurate report of the fire and the conditions you experienced.
You can increase your chances of surviving a fire by taking precautions before one starts. If there are children, pets or disabled people in your home, you'll need to devise an escape plan that works for everybody involved. In addition, if you're going to bed at night, place several drops of peppermint oil on a tissue near your pillow. This will help clear your nasal passages should carbon monoxide enter the room because it is heavier than air.
Preparing yourself for an emergency well in advance is much better than panicking when one occurs out of the blue! Knowing how to prepare yourself through knowledge alone could save your life someday!
A house catching fire not only means you need to quickly evacuate your dwelling, but also grab some important items before leaving.
Always Take Your Family outside the House First
If you have a family, it is crucial that they are your first priority during an emergency. Take everyone outside to a safe place without waiting for anyone else to come out with you. Taking others with you could result in being stuck inside the house so don't wait for them either - just leave!
Grab Your Valuables Before You Go Outside
Don't forget things like your wallet and other valuables as well as important documents such as passports and deeds. These things can be replaced but this is also the time where you really want to grab photographs from the walls or albums if possible. Remember that once a fire spreads, moving around becomes even more dangerous which means time is of the essence when evacuating!
Go to a Safe Distance and Call for Help
Once you have grabbed what's essential, it is safest to leave the area that is burning altogether. Take your family outside the house and then call for help so that your family can be rescued sooner rather than later. Keep everyone together in a group nearby - do not let anyone run off alone! No matter how old they are or who is leading them, keep your children close by you at all times. By getting these things done ahead of time, you are preparing yourself for saving some important items while escaping from the fire.
Don't Forget the Pet
No matter how small your family is, make sure you include the pet in your escape plan. Never leave a pet behind because they may be waiting for their owners to return and end up dying of smoke inhalation or getting burned when trying to hide inside a crate or kennel.