Fire safety is a hot topic for building owners and managers. Unfortunately with so much information out there, myths and truths can mingle together and cause confusion. But when it comes to fire safety, separating fire safety myths from the facts can save your life.
Here are some common fire safety myths:
Myth 1: People Always Panic in a Fire
Being caught in a fire is a scary situation, and it seems reasonable that in the event of a fire you would panic. However, researchers have proven that the opposite is true. In the event of a fire, people tend to not act inappropriately if they feel prepared. What actually causes people to panic during a fire is the stress of being unprepared and not having an evacuation plan. That is why it is always better to be safe rather than sorry. The best way to ensure that you remain calm during a fire is to have a fire safety evacuation plan!
Myth 2: Newer Homes are Safer than Older Homes
With all the information we know and the technology we have, a newer home might feel more fire safe than an older home. But the age of a home is a poor way to predict whether a fire will start. Most fires result from human behavior rather than the physical characteristics of the home. So, regardless of whether a home is old or new, any fire can be serious and life-threatening.
Myth 3: The Cause of Death is Usually Due to Burns
Although burning in a fire seems like it would be the number one cause of deaths, smoke is the true culprit of most deaths during a fire. Smoke can fill an entire house in as little as three to five minutes, creating complete darkness, even during daylight. The inhalation of smoke can become very toxic and cause people to choke, become disoriented, and fall unconscious. And since smoke rises, it is very important for you to stay as low to the ground as you can and get out quickly.
Myth 4: The Smell of Smoke Will Wake Me
Most fatal fires occur at night, because people are rarely awoken by smoke. Even if they are, fire and smoke have probably spread so far by then as to make escape difficult. Smoke in a home fire contains a deadly mixture of gases that can actually drug a person into deeper sleep! That is why it is critical that a smoke alarm is found on every floor and ideally outside every bedroom. A smoke alarm is your best chance of early warning.
