Workplace Fire Safety

Prevention

-Give heat generating equipment room to breath.  Don't stack papers on devices such as computer monitors.
-Don't pinch extension cords under furniture.
-Report frayed electrical cords.
-Unplug coffeemakers and other small appliances before everyone leaves for home.
-Make sure your exit ways are not blocked by trash, boxes or other potential impediments.
-Report blocked exit ways as well as problems with sprinklers, alarms and emergency lighting.
-Carefully store flammable liquids if they are used in your workplace.

If A Fire Occurs

-Never ignore the fire alarm.
-Leave immediately, closing doors behind you.  If fire is between you and the way out in a high-rise building, sometimes it's better to stay inside a closed room.  Make sure your workplace has a clear fire safety plan and practice it regularly.
-Sound the alarm if someone hasn't already done so.
-If you encounter smoke, try a different way out.  Be aware of all the exits available to you.
-If you have to leave and there's smoke, crawl low under it.
-Use stairs, not elevators.
-Never go back inside a burning building.

Fire Extinguishers

-Make sure everyone is out or leaving the building and the fire department is on the way, before you consider using an extinguisher.
-Fire extinguishers are only good for fighting small fires.
-Ensure that you are using the right type of extinguisher for the fire you are trying to put out.
-To find out more about extinguishers, go to our Fire Extinguisher web page.
-Ask your employer to provide information on the use of extinguishers.  London Fire Services will come to your workplace to provide this information, free of charge. 
-Call 661-2500 Ext. 4565 or e-mail Public Information Coordinator Rick Jefferson at rjeffers@london.ca