Fire needs all three elements. If you remove one, you can eliminate or reduce the fire. For example:
Closing doors - reduces the amount of oxygen
Dousing with water - reduces heat
Using an ABC Type Fire Extinguisher - smothers the fire, reducing oxygen
Removing nearby draperies, papers, furniture - removes the source of fuel
Fire Tips and Facts
In an emergency, use stairwells. Do not use elevators, unless instructed otherwise.
Feel the stairwell door with the back of your hand for heat, before opening the door.
If you encounter smoke, get down on your hands and knees. The air is cleaner and cooler nearer the floor. Crawl to the nearest stairwell exit.
Most fatalities are a result of smoke inhalation, poisonous gases and panic. Panic, a sudden overpowering terror, is usually the result of not knowing what to do.
Smoke detectors serve as an early-warning system. Smoke detectors save lives.
A sprinkler system is designed to suppress a fire. Sprinkler heads are activated one at a time by a rise in the temperature.
Planning and Preparedness
Have a list of emergency phone numbers.
Be familiar with your floor's layout.
Know primary and secondary exits routes and termination points both up and down.
Know location, type and how to use manual fire alarms and fire extinguishers.
Know primary and secondary methods of communication.
Know safe refuge areas (re-location floors) during a fire emergency:
If relocating within the building - usually a minimum of four (4) floors below the fire floor is adequate.
When evacuating the building - move away from the building, and out of the way of emergency vehicles, flying glass and other obstacles. Usually a distance that is greater than the height of the building and proceed to your pre-determined outside assembly area.
Safe Stairwell Procedures
Remain quiet and calm. Do Not Talk and Do Not Text!
Remove high-heel shoes. Keep a pair of old sneakers next to your work station.
Use handrails & move quickly. Walk in a single file.
Keep to the right so Emergency personnel can ascend the stairs on the left.
Allow others to enter into stairwell flow, but do not unnecessarily hold up traffic.
Assist those who are slower or physically impaired.
Walk down the stairs (unless otherwise instructed).
All injuries should be treated at stairwell landings when required and safe to do so.
Do not spread false information, rumors, etc.
Do not bring drinks or food into stairwell.
Develop awareness of safety conditions, fire violations and potential hazards, for example: fire doors improperly blocked or open, improper lighting, frayed cords, overloaded outlets, obstructed halls and corridors, trash buildups, etc.
Participate in fire drills and review emergency procedures.
Know your area of responsibility and your emergency actions.