Fire at home

Most fire victims die not from the flames but from smoke – often in their sleep. That is why smoke alarms are required by law in every German federal state.

Prevention

Not everything at once – start by pressing the test button on your smoke alarm; it takes a minute.

• Smoke alarms in bedrooms, children's rooms and hallways; press the test button regularly.
• A fire blanket in the kitchen, a fire extinguisher (e.g. foam) within reach – and know how it works.
• Keep your escape route clear, and always keep your door keys in the same place.
• Never leave candles unattended, and don't plug power strips into each other.
• Practise with children: the smoke alarm beeps → get out, meet in front of the building.

If there is a fire

1. Warn: Everyone in your home, then the neighbours.
2. Rescue: Get out of your home. Close the door to the room on fire – this slows down fire and smoke.
3. Report: Call 112 (the five W questions, see Warnings and communication).
4. Extinguish: Only small fires that are just starting, and only if you don't put yourself in danger.

• Grease fire (pot, pan): never use water – put a lid or fire blanket on it, turn off the stove.
• If there is smoke: stay low near the floor, the air is better there.
• Do not use the lift.

Stairwell full of smoke

Do not walk through thick smoke. Instead:

• Stay in your home and close the front door.
• Seal the gaps around the door with wet towels.
• Call 112 and say where you are.
• Make yourself seen at the window or on the balcony – the fire brigade is coming.

Afterwards

Only go back into your home once the fire brigade says it is safe. Soot and smoke gases are toxic.