A workplace fire can be a frightening experience. When a fire gets out of control, things happen quickly, and responses to the crisis can easily make the situation worse. People respond poorly when they are surprised and do not know the correct procedures to follow. Very often, chaotic, and uncoordinated responses to fires can take a simple incident and turn it into a major event. Fire is a risk that we live with every day. We are surrounded by combustible materials, at home, in our cars, and at work. Workplace safety training is something that should occur regularly and comprehensively.

• Learn the Hazards: The first step to fire safety education is being able to identify the risks. Diamond Protection Fire Training in Queensland can help you with your safety program. Fire requires fuel, oxygen, and a source of heat. Oxygen is everywhere, so you must assume it is always present. But fuel and heat can be kept apart. It is good to recognise what materials are flammable and how volatile they are. And what potential heat sources exist in an area. Sparks from electrical equipment are often overlooked.

• First Response: Because there might be very little time to limit the damage, your first response is the most critical. In most cases, unless you need to save a life, the first response should be to activate alarms, activate suppression systems, and call emergency services. If there is more than one person, these tasks can be split up.

• Second Response: Assess the situation and, if possible, use some of the fire safety equipment available to try to put out or suppress the fire. Fire extinguishers and other equipment should be available in a prominent place and easy to access. Your staff should also be trained in the use of these devices. Your safety program should include safety training that includes the use of first-aid and safety equipment.

• Third Response: If the attempt to suppress the fire is unsuccessful, and the fire department has not yet arrived. Then your next response should be to limit the damage by leaving the space and closing doors to reduce the oxygen. Be careful while leaving the space to use the fire exit doors which are installed on every building by businesses, also regularly maintained and compliant with fire exit door regulations for businesses and workplace fire safety laws.  If it takes more than one minute to extinguish the fire, you should leave and close the doors. This is because even with a small fire, the smoke could be toxic, or the smoke could block your visibility on the way out. There is also the risk of an explosion. Even if your fire suppression was successful, staying in the area could prove to be fatal. As you leave, assess who was in the building and make sure that everyone got out safely. Relay the information to firefighters when they arrive.

With good training, people respond instinctively and without panic. Everyone should be taught the use of fire safety equipment and set time aside for drills and reminders of safety protocol. If your employees know how to identify the risks and keep fires from happening, they will likely never need to practice their response in a real-life situation. But if the moment comes, panic and chaotic overreactions will be significantly reduced.