What to Do If a Fire Starts

Overview

• Early fire detection is essential to prevent small incidents from becoming major disasters by providing critical time to evacuate and alert emergency services.
• Knowing how to respond quickly by using tools like fire alarms, extinguishers, and blankets can save lives and reduce damage.
  Industrial PH offers advanced Fire Detection and Alarm
• Systems designed to protect businesses and communities across the Philippines.

Fires start when we least expect them. It may be due to faulty wiring, an unattended pan in the kitchen, or a sudden equipment malfunction. In only a matter of seconds, a minor incident can grow into a dangerous blaze that threatens lives and property.

The reality is, it can also be a traumatic experience, but knowing what to do in those crucial first moments can be life-changing.

This article will walk you through what to do if a fire starts and how a reliable fire protection and alarm system (FDAS) can make all the difference in keeping people safe and minimizing damage.

Why Early Fire Detection Matters?

Early fire detection matters because it gives people more time to respond before a small spark turns into a full-blown disaster. When a fire is recognized in its initial phases, occupants can safely evacuate, and emergency services can be alerted urgently to prevent the flames from spreading further.

Moreover, it also minimizes damage to property and downtime for businesses. In industrial and commercial environments, where valuable assets and equipment are at stake, a fire detection system serves as the first line of defense.

Ultimately, it not only buys time but also offers peace of mind, knowing that any possible threat will be determined and addressed immediately.

What to Do If a Fire Starts and How to Stop It

Even with the best safety measures in place, fires can still happen unexpectedly. When they do, knowing the right steps to take can save several lives and prevent property damage.

Bell a Fire Detection and Alarm Systems

The first step in a fire emergency is to activate the nearest fire alarm. Locate a manual call point (MCP)—usually a red box mounted on walls in hallways, near exits, or by stairwells. Press firmly or break the glass to trigger the FDAS. Once activated, the system will sound bells or sirens, alerting everyone in the building.

An FDAS is one of the most essential safety tools during emergencies. It constantly monitors for smoke, heat, or flames and ensures quick alerts for occupants and responders. By giving people time to react, it reduces injuries, slows the spread of fire, and supports coordinated evacuation and response.

Use a Fire Extinguisher

If the fire is still small, grab the nearest fire extinguisher and aim at the base of the flames. Sweep from side to side until the fire is out or contained.

A fire extinguisher is one of the most effective first-response tools, helping stop flames before they spread. But it’s just as important to recognize when a fire is too large to manage—at that point, evacuate immediately and activate FDAS to alert responders.

Shut Off Fuel or Power Sources

Cutting off fuel or power sources can prevent a fire from spreading further. For instance, turn off gas lines, electrical switches, or other fuel sources if it’s safe to do so. This cuts off the fire’s energy supply and helps prevent it from growing stronger.

By shutting down these sources, you reduce the risk of explosions, electrical hazards, and rapid fire spread. This quick action creates safer conditions for both occupants and emergency responders.

Use a Fire Blanket

Place the fire blanket directly over small flames or wrap it around a person whose clothing has caught fire. Make sure the blanket fully covers the fire to smother it.

Fire blankets work by cutting off oxygen, making them especially useful for kitchen fires or clothing accidents. Using one right away prevents flames from spreading to nearby materials, making it an essential safety tool in both homes and workplaces.

Call Reliable Emergency Respondents

Dial the emergency hotline immediately if the fire is beyond your control. Trained responders have the right equipment and expertise to handle dangerous situations safely.

In the Philippines, the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is the primary agency for fire emergencies. They manage firefighting, rescue operations, and fire safety enforcement nationwide—ensuring communities get the help they need during critical moments.

Evacuate to the Designated Zones

Leave the building quickly and calmly, then head straight to the nearest evacuation center or designated safe zone. Staying in these areas ensures you’re out of danger while responders manage the fire.

Evacuation zones are designed to keep people safe, organized, and accounted for until it is secure to return. Following this step reduces panic and supports a smoother emergency response.

Industrial PH: Enhancing Safety with Fire Detection and Alarm Systems

Industrial PH is a trustworthy solutions provider in the Philippines, committed to safeguarding lives and properties through innovative building advancements. With our expertise and dedication to reliability, we deliver world-class Fire Detection and Alarm Systems (FDAS) for businesses and communities in the face of fire risks.

Here are the types of FDAS Industrial PH offers:

• Conventional FDAS: Divides buildings into zones for basic fire detection and localization.
• Addressable FDAS: Pinpoints the exact device that triggered the alarm for faster response.
• Analogue Addressable FDAS: Provides real-time monitoring with detailed insights like smoke levels and temperature.
• Wireless FDAS: Uses wireless signals for flexible installation, ideal for retrofits or challenging structures.
• Aspirating Smoke Detection Systems (ASD): A highly sensitive early detection system, perfect for data centers, museums, and clean rooms.

With these technologies, we make sure that every facility, like an office, warehouse, school, or hospital, remains safeguarded with comprehensive fire safety solutions.

Key Takeaway

Now that you know what to do if a fire starts, do not forget, too, that having the presence of mind is pivotal. Panicking during these times may not be impossible, BUT things are still different when you understand what must be done first.

Industrial PH is a reliable provider of Fire Detection and Alarm Systems in the Philippines, aiming to eradicate potential damage to human lives and properties. Reach out to us today to learn the best type of FDAS for your structures.