IF YOUR CLOTHES CATCH FIRE...STOP, DROP AND ROLL
All clothing can burn and some clothing burns more easily than others. The Brunswick Fire Department recommends that if your clothing catches fire, STOP, DROP AND ROLL to put out the flames. Don't run or keep standing. Running will only fan the flames and make them higher. Standing up straight will make the fire burn faster. STOP AND DROP down to the floor or ground. ROLL or rock back and forth to smother the flames. Smothering the fire cuts off its supply of oxygen, so it cannot burn. If possible, roll or rock in a rug, blanket or coat to smother the fire faster.
When the fire is out, cool the burn with water and call the fire department or rescue squad. Do not remove the burned clothing if it is stuck to the skin. Keep the victim quiet and warm until help arrives.
The fatal mistake people make in a clothing fire is to panic and run. Seconds count. The smothering action must be automatic. A trained, immediate response of STOP, DROP AND ROLL is extremely important. The running response occurs in all age groups, but it is prevalent in younger children. Scared children run to find parents or mistakenly think that only water can put out a fire and they run to find it. Everyone, especially children, must be taught to STOP, DROP AND ROLL. Parents and teachers should encourage children to practice by making a weekly game of it. Make sure that they understand when and where to use this technique.
Most clothing fires are careless accidents and can be prevented. Follow these simple rules: