Lesson 6 – Raising the Alarm, Calling Emergency Services and Evacuating

6.1 Discovering a fire

If an employee discovers fire or smoke, they should:

1. Raise the alarm immediately.
2. Leave by the nearest safe exit.
3. Warn others only where this can be done without delay or danger.
4. Call 999 from a safe location.
5. Go to the assembly point.
6. Report relevant information to the fire marshal or emergency services.
7. Remain outside until authorised to return.

Employees should not delay evacuation to:

• Collect personal belongings;
• Finish a telephone call;
• Save documents;
• Shut down computers;
• Find the source of smoke;
• Fight the fire without training;
• Wait for a manager; or
• Confirm whether the alarm is genuine.

6.2 Calling 999

The caller should provide:

• The full address;
• The postcode if known;
• The type of incident;
• The location of the fire;
• Whether people may be trapped;
• Any known hazardous materials;
• Access information; and
• Their name and telephone number.

The caller should not end the call until instructed by the operator.

6.3 When the alarm sounds

Employees should:

• Stop work immediately;
• Follow the designated escape route;
• Walk quickly without running;
• Avoid lifts unless specifically designated;
• Close doors behind them where safe;
• Do not stop to collect belongings;
• Assist visitors in accordance with the plan;
• Go directly to the assembly point;
• Report to the appropriate person; and
• Remain available for roll call or further instructions.

6.4 Visitors and contractors

Employees hosting visitors or contractors should:

• Explain relevant emergency information on arrival where appropriate;
• Direct them to the nearest safe exit;
• Take them to the assembly point;
• Report anyone unaccounted for; and
• Never re-enter to search.

6.5 People requiring assistance

Some people may require additional assistance because of:

• Mobility impairment;
• Visual impairment;
• Hearing impairment;
• Cognitive impairment;
• Pregnancy;
• Injury;
• Illness;
• Language difficulty; or
• Temporary circumstances.

Site-specific arrangements may include:

• A personal emergency evacuation plan;
• A buddy system;
• Visual or vibrating alarms;
• An evacuation chair used by trained personnel;
• A refuge area;
• An accessible route; or
• Assistance from designated staff.

Employees must follow the premises-specific plan and their training. They should not improvise unsafe lifting or carrying.

6.6 Assembly point

At the assembly point:

• Remain with the relevant team;
• Participate in roll call;
• Report visitors or colleagues believed missing;
• Keep access clear for emergency vehicles;
• Do not leave without notifying the appropriate person;
• Do not obstruct firefighters; and
• Do not return to the building.

6.7 Missing people

If someone may be inside:

• Inform the fire service immediately;
• Provide their likely location;
• Explain any mobility or communication needs;
• Do not re-enter; and
• Do not ask another untrained person to search.

Lesson 6 key point

Raise the alarm, leave by the nearest safe route, call 999, assemble and remain outside. Never delay evacuation to investigate or collect belongings.