In a residential building while the main focus of fire protection strategy should be to prevent fire, should a fire accidentally break out, early automatic fire detection is essential to help contain the fire. It facilitates safe and swift evacuation of people, can summon the emergency services and also provides accurate information concerning the location of the fire so that it can be dealt with in an appropriate manner.



 Essential facilities

There should be a facility to tackle fire by having water outlets in each floor near the staircase and lift area. In a high rise open floors at fixed distance should be dedicated and kept empty for fire exit and for resident to assemble in the event of fire. Lifts should automatically stop moving. In most new high rises, the electrical wiring used is fire resistant. This reduces the chances of fire from spreading during circuits and contain the fire within a limited area. Even the electrical fittings and switch boards need to be fire resistant and technically checked.

Optimum precautions against fire need to be taken into consideration for high rises with water sprinklers and fire hydrants installed in the building as per requirement. The use of fire rated glass in the interior and the exterior of the building as required, adds to the comfort of the internal environment while providing passive fire protection.



 Refuge areas

In high rises, specific open areas are provided at certain intervals called refuge area for residents to assemble in the event of fire. This is also required regulation by the authorities. Fire safety measures are also consciously incorporated in the basic design of the building; for instance planning shear walls to use as fire guards. Also, foyers, staircases, and other areas are separated into compartments to enhance fire safety. Fire rated doors are used as main doors, lobby doors and kitchen doors.


Synchronized alarms

In many buildings adequate care is taken to ensure that power trips in case of surge or short circuit. Smoke detectors and fire alarms are suitably installed at most location and are synchronized with the central alarm system and the Building Management System. Also, the security guards and watchmen should be trained in the operation of fire system and water tanks, which is one of the most important but often neglected aspects.




 Make efforts at an individual level

  • Never leave food unattended on a stove. Keep cooking areas free of flammable objects. Avoid wearing clothes with long, loose-fitting sleeves when cooking. Also, supervise young children whenever they’re near cooking surfaces.
  • Never smoke in bed or leave burning cigarettes unattended. Do not empty smouldering ashes in a trash can, and keep ashtrays away from upholstered furniture and curtains.
  • Children playing with fire cause hundreds of deaths and injuries each year. Keep all matches and lighters out of reach of children. Store them up high, preferably in a locked cabinet.
  • Never use lighters or matches as a source of amusement for children; they may imitate you. If your child expresses curiosity about fire or has been playing with fire, calmly but firmly explain that matches and lighters are tools for adults only.
  • Install smoke alarms on every floor of the home, including the basement, and particularly near rooms in which people sleep. Test all smoke alarms every month to ensure they work properly.
  • Use long-life smoke alarms with lithium-powered batteries and hush buttons, which allow persons to stop false alarms quickly. If long-life alarms are not available, use regular alarms, and replace the batteries annually.
  • Devise a family fire escape plan and practice it every 6 months. In the plan, describe at least two different ways each family member can escape every room, and designate a safe place in front of the home for family members to meet after escaping a fire.
  • Don’t overload sockets. Try to keep to one plug per socket. Too many electrical appliances plugged into one socket can overload it, which can lead to overheating. Electrical appliances, plugs and cables that are old or poorly wired can also be a real danger.
  • Use candles carefully. Candles, decorative lights and decorations are a growing cause of fires. Make sure candles are secured in a stable holder and kept away from curtains, fabrics and paper. Always put candles out when you are leaving the room or going to bed.