What To Do If There's a Fire in Your Home

A fire in your home can be terrifying but knowing what to do can save lives. We’re here to guide you through what steps to take if the worst happens, so you and your loved ones stay safe. 

Let everyone in your home know immediately.

• Shout, knock on doors, do whatever you need to get everyone’s attention.

Get out – fast and safely.

• Don’t stop to grab valuables or pets. Fire and smoke spread quickly, and every second counts.

Know your escape route.

• You should already have an escape plan, and everyone in the house should be familiar with it. If you don’t have a plan yet, now is the time to create one. Visit our Escape Plans page to get started

• Don’t investigate the fire. Get out and stay out.
• Stay low: Smoke rises – the cleanest air is near the floor. Crawl if needed.
• Only open the doors you need to. Close doors behind you if you can – this helps slow the spread of fire.
• Check doors before opening. Use the back of your hand to feel the door. If it’s warm, don’t open it – the fire could be right behind it.
• Stick together. If you’re escaping with others, make sure no one is left behind or gets separated.

• Call 999 immediately. 
• Never go back inside. 
• Wait somewhere safe. 
• If someone is still inside, do not go back for them. Let us know immediately – we are trained to handle these situations and will act quickly to help. 

Remember:
Going back in puts your life in danger and can delay firefighters from rescuing others. 

If your escape route is blocked: 

If you’re on the ground floor: 

• Open a window and climb out if it’s safe. 
• Throw soft items (like bedding or cushions) to break your fall. 
• If the window won’t open, use a heavy object to break the bottom corner. 
• Cover sharp edges with clothing or a towel before climbing through. 
• Lower children first, as close to the ground as possible. If someone is outside, have them catch or support them. 
• Lower yourself by your arms before dropping. 

If you can’t get out: 

• Get everyone into one room – ideally one with a window. 
• Block the door with cushions, towels or bedding to keep smoke out. 
• Open the window and shout for help. 
• Call 999 if you can. Let them know exactly where you are. 

Remember these three life-saving words: 

STOP. DROP. ROLL. 

Stop – Don’t run. That makes the flames worse. 

Drop – Get down to the ground. Cover your face with your hands to protect it. 

Roll – Roll over and over to smother the flames. 

If possible, someone nearby can also help by covering you with a heavy blanket or coat. 

Get Out.
Stay Out.
Call 999. 

We hope you never have to face a fire but if you do, knowing what to do can make all the difference. Stay safe, stay prepared, and know that we’re here to help you every step of the way.