Dean McWhirter Firefighter Control
Regional Control Centre, NIFRS HQ, Lisburn 
Escape Route
If a fire occurs in your home, you may have to get out in dark and difficult conditions. Escaping from a fire will be a lot easier if you have already planned your escape route and know where to go:
- Involve everyone in the house.
- The normal way out is the preferred choice.
- Keep your escape route clear of obstructions.
- Protect your escape route by closing all doors into it, especially at night.
- Practise using the agreed plan.
- Select a safe meeting place outside.
- Make everyone aware of how to call the Fire & Rescue Service.
If you are unable to use the normal way out, consider alternative routes:
- Rear doors.
- Patio doors.
- Windows.
Make sure everyone is aware of these alternatives. If you discover a fire, or the smoke alarm sounds, you will only have a short time to get out. If possible:
- Close the door of the room where the fire is.
- Get everyone out as quickly as possible.
- Telephone Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service on 999 from a neighbour’s house or mobile phone.
- Never go back into a house until a Fire Officer has told you it is safe to do so.
If you are cut off by fire, try to remain calm:
- Close the door and use towels or sheets to block any gaps
- Try to make your way to the window.
- If the room becomes smoky, crawl along the floor.
- Open the window and try to attract the attention of others.
