ADT Fire and Security - Experts & Thought Leaders

ADT Commercial, a pioneering security integrator and premier provider of commercial security, fire, life safety, and guarding services in the U.S., has launched the redesign, rebrand and user experience transformation of its customer engagement platform to Everon (formerly eSuite). The development of the modernized Everon platform was driven by years of direct customer feedback to provide a more intuitive, user-friendly experience that boasts a host of new features, system efficiencies, mobile responsiveness and supportive, self-service functions.  Enhancements to prioritize action  Everon’s more intuitive, web-based platform provides ADT Commercial customers with immediate, user-friendly access to security system information and insights to be able to make critical decisions and take action. The modernized user interface includes a dark-mode desktop experience and enhanced dashboards that prioritize account and alarm data based on each organization’s individual preferences, so the most important information that requires customer action is displayed first. Everon Additionally, Everon is the most efficient iteration of ADT Commercial’s customer engagement platform, retrieving and displaying data more quickly than ever before with amplified mobile responsiveness for effective solution management on the go. Everon is about prioritizing action so that our customers feel more empowered at every turn" “Everything across Everon is about prioritizing action so that our customers feel more empowered at every turn. We want them to feel like they have total ownership over their systems — from wherever they are, even on the go,” said Jay Robertson, Senior Vice President, Product Management for ADT Commercial. He adds, “It’s about supporting them with valuable insights, a more mobile responsive experience, and self-service functionalities that allow them to take meaningful action and streamline their security, fire and life safety programs and operations.” Branding for innovation and excellence  The philosophy behind the new brand and name was approached with a similar intent, and how — not unlike Everon — ADT Commercial is “always on” — 24/7/365 — and aims to serve its customers to the highest standard of quality.  “We wanted the Everon brand to communicate the true essence of ADT Commercial and how our customers interact with our company,” said Beth Tarnoff, Vice President, Marketing & Communications for ADT Commercial, adding “At its core, our customer engagement platform strives to simplify the complex, drives performance and inspires confidence with our customers — in their management, the decisions they make, and in their security-, fire- and life-safety programs." With the new Everon name and platform, we were able to bring together the key values of our company" Beth Tarnoff continues, “Not only does the name Everon literally convey our plan to be ‘always on’ and our willingness to go above and beyond for our customers, it speaks to the intersecting values of excellence and innovation that embody our relationship-driven approach as an integrator. With the new Everon name and platform, we were able to bring together the key values of our company to be interacted with and displayed across this critical customer touchpoint portal.” Customer-driven features  Based entirely on customer-driven feedback, the new Everon platform supports users with:  Ease of management: Data is prioritized based on customer preference. The most important information requiring action is presented first across dashboards to help customers quickly make decisions and efficiently manage account needs and settings. Improved visibility: Everon provides a more comprehensive view of security-, fire- and life-safety systems across all locations in real-time, whether the customer has one site or thousands. Customers can expect to see new, modernized location tags to replace the older location groups feature, allowing a wider range of use and function. Documentation and reporting: Customers are empowered with robust analytics and reporting on their systems, and can leverage a single platform to document incident evidence and manage system test results, alarm history, open/close reporting and more. Self-service features Everon offers a host of self-service features, allowing users the convenience and flexibility to perform Everon offers a host of self-service features, allowing users the convenience and flexibility to perform many administrative and critical account management tasks remotely, including the ability to: Place system on test and view test event history  Update billing info and pay invoices online  View and update system schedules  Update contact lists and keypad codes  Arm and disarm compatible systems remotely  Set open/close schedules  Additional features Everon also allows users to interact with the service and installation process and pull critical reports, including the ability to:  Submit service requests online  View service history and technician resolution notes  View real-time service call status  Manage service and installation work  View service, installation and inspection reports  Current eSuite users “We’re so excited to introduce Everon to our customers and the industry, and to let everyone know that this is only the beginning,” Robertson said. “We view Everon as constantly evolving, and we’ll be continuing to solicit feedback from our customers as we consider new features and explore new functionalities. This platform is for them — we want their needs and input always baked into its DNA.”  The new user interface will launch to all new customers in August 2023, while current eSuite users will be systematically migrated to Everon over the next 12 months, beginning in early 2024.

The National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) is pleased to announce the winners of its 2021 Annual Fire Service Achievement Awards. NVFC’s awards recipients Theodore Schroll Jr. will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by ADT, Robert James will receive the Chief James P. Seavey Sr. Health and Wellness Leadership Award, co-sponsored by VFIS and Ward Diesel Filter Systems, Paige Davis will receive the Junior Firefighter of the Year Award, sponsored by California Casualty, and the Colonia Volunteer Fire Department Explorer Program will receive the Junior Firefighter Program of the Year Award, sponsored by California Casualty. It is with great pleasure that we recognize the incredible work of our 2021 award winners" “The past year has tested our nation in many ways, but one thing we can always rely on is the dedication, resilience, and exceptional service provided by our nation’s volunteer firefighters and EMS providers,” said NVFC’s Chair Steve Hirsch. Steve adds, “It is with great pleasure that we recognize the incredible work of our 2021 award winners and highlight the amazing achievements of those who give so much to help their communities.” 2021 Annual Fire Service Achievement Awards A celebration luncheon to honor the recipients of the Lifetime Achievement, Chief James P. Seavey Sr. Health and Wellness Leadership, and Junior Firefighter of the Year awards will take place during the NVFC’s fall meeting scheduled on October 15, 2021, in Jackson, Wyoming. The recipient of the Junior Firefighter Program of the Year will be presented with their award at their department this fall, so that all their junior firefighters may attend. The recipients of the NVFC’s 2021 Annual Fire Service Achievement Awards are as follows: Asst. Chief Theodore ‘Ted’ Schroll Jr. - NVFC Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by ADT Ret. Asst. Chief Ted Schroll has never ‘just belonged’ to anything that he has been involved with. He is a dedicated fire service volunteer and works hard on any assignment, to make things better. Ted joined Wethersfield Fire Department in 1960, in Connecticut, working his way up from Firefighter to Acting Chief, and his energy and dedication are just as strong in 2021. Active member of the fire services Although, Ted Schroll retired as Acting Chief in 1999, he remains an active member of the fire department. He has shared his knowledge within his local department, the Connecticut State Firefighters Association (CSFA), and at the Connecticut State Capitol. Ted Schroll has served in all the executive positions for the state association, as well as served as CSFA’s legislative representative for over 25 years. Due to his thorough understanding of the legislative process, he was able to represent CSFA without missing a beat, during the COVID-19 pandemic and switch to online meetings. CSFA and the fire service representative Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ted Schroll spent countless hours at the state capitol, representing CSFA and the fire service Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ted Schroll spent countless hours at the state capitol, representing CSFA and the fire service. He has been aggressive to secure not only legislation, but also funding for construction and rehabilitation of Connecticut’s regional fire schools. He was instrumental, along with Chief John McAuliffe, in securing state legislation that prohibits career departments from forbidding their employees from volunteering in the communities that they live in. Due to his legislative expertise, he has been a resource to many other state fire associations, as well as the NVFC for legislative questions or concerns. CSFA’s Assistant Secretary Ted Schroll also currently serves as CSFA’s Assistant Secretary and Credentials Committee Chair. He is pivotal in organizing the yearly convention and makes it a family affair with his wife, children, and even grandson assisting the credentials committee at the convention. He was inducted into the Connecticut State Firefighters Hall of Fame in 2010. In addition to his work in the fire service, Ted served active duty in the United States Air Force until 1960 and is a past President of the New England Section of the International Municipal Signalman's Association (IMSA). Schroll has exemplified commitment and dedication to the fire service on the local, state, and national levels for over 61 years and will continue to do so for many more. Captain Robert ‘RJ’ James - NVFC Chief James P. Seavey Sr. Health and Wellness Leadership Award, co-sponsored by VFIS and Ward Diesel Filter Systems Captain Robert James is a 20-year veteran of the fire service. He started as a volunteer firefighter with the Cromwell Fire Department, before relocating to Maryland, where he joined the Rockville Volunteer Fire Department (RVFD), one of the busiest fire stations in Montgomery County. Mentor to young firefighters and EMTs In addition to volunteering, Robert James is a full time employee of the Frederick County Fire Rescue (FCFR) Division, Rescue Squad 3, where he leads the Advanced Technical Rescue Team.  In July 2021 he was promoted to lieutenant. As a volunteer, Robert James has received numerous citations and awards from the RVFD and the State of Maryland. He hit the ground running, receiving his first award on his first week on the job, after making a life-saving rescue. His service and dedication have not slowed since. He is a mentor to young firefighters and EMTs, making safety his top priority. Rescue and hazardous materials operations expert Robert James is an expert in many areas, including firefighter survival and rescue and hazardous materials operations Robert James is an expert in many areas, including firefighter survival and rescue and hazardous materials operations, but he is especially proficient in technical rescue and trench operations. He uses his extensive knowledge and skill to mentor new recruits and seasoned professionals. He takes the utmost care in teaching them the necessary skills, while at the same time making their personal safety the primary factor in every aspect of his training programs. Robert travels across the country to teach, train and mentor. In his spare time, he has a podcast, where he discusses best practices for firefighter safety. Commitment to craft and training Because of Robert James’ commitment to his craft and the training that he provides, his fellow firefighters are safer and smarter, which allows them to better deal with the incidents that they face. It also makes them safer and better able to protect themselves now, so as to prevent physical or heath issues later in life. Robert James is a natural leader, which is why he is such a successful firefighter, EMT, trainer, and mentor. He is an inspiration to all who know him and always has his fellow firefighters’ safety and wellness at the forefront of everything he does. Paige Davis - NVFC Junior Firefighter of the Year, sponsored by California Casualty  ‘Servant Leadership’ was the title of one of Paige Davis’ recent speeches to her cadets, and that leadership philosophy is befitting for her. She is the first to step up, help, pitch-in, and teach, even if there is no recognition. Davis always cheers for her competition, does the right thing, and acts with honesty and integrity.  Bartlett Hackberry Township Fire Department’s junior program When Paige Davis joined the junior program at Bartlett Hackberry Township Fire Department (Bartlett, KS), on her 12th birthday, it was amid a major transition of juniors graduating into regular firefighter positions. This gap created the need for someone to step up and learn to lead, and she answered that call. Throughout this period, the community suffered from a prolific arsonist and experienced several of the worst fires in its history. Keeping safety at the forefront, Paige Davis and other juniors were called upon to assist the department in many ways, during this intense time, until the arsonist was caught. She then helped the junior program transition back from ‘busy’ to ‘normal’, by keeping members active and involved. Cadet & Junior Apprentice Firefighter Program lead She has led the fire department’s Cadet & Junior Apprentice Firefighter Program since 2019 When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and everything changed once again, Paige Davis was a vital force in helping the fire department respond to the new challenges. She has led the fire department’s Cadet & Junior Apprentice Firefighter Program since 2019. Paige is also actively involved in many department activities, including training, mentoring, and recruiting cadets, installing smoke detectors, assisting with fire prevention education, maintaining the department’s PPE inventory tracking system, and managing department technology, including Active911, group chats, and video meetings. Active member of Advisory Board She is also a member of an advisory board that is developing a 25-year plan for the department’s future. Even off-duty, Paige Davis always does what she can to help others. On May 10, 2020, her quick actions saved the life of a toddler who was wondering in the middle of a roadway, when she and her father were driving by. She is actively involved in organizations that work to strengthen and reinforce a sense of community, responsibility, and service, including 4H, FFA, and Civil Air Patrol. As an incoming high school senior, accomplished athlete, and barrel racer with world standings, she encourages others to be involved with their communities during her travels. Colonia Fire Department Explorer Program - NVFC Junior Firefighter Program of the Year, sponsored by California Casualty Colonia Fire Department’s Explorer Post The Colonia Fire Department’s Explorer Post is a vibrant, long-running program that has provided numerous benefits to the fire department and the community. The program is also the primary source of new members for the department, with many of the current members being former explorers. The explorers learn firefighting methods, equipment, and apparatus through training and drills. By participating in community service activities, these young people have become ambassadors of their community and the department, as they prepare for college and life after high school. Ohio Youth Fire & EMS Training Academy (OYFETA) For the past 11 years, the Colonia explorers have participated in the Ohio Youth Fire & EMS Training Academy (OYFETA) For the past 11 years, the Colonia explorers have participated in the Ohio Youth Fire & EMS Training Academy (OYFETA), a week-long event that takes place at Hocking College in Nelsonville, Ohio. Taking a group of teenagers, raised in New Jersey, to a rural college campus several hundred miles away and embedding them with a similar group of teenagers from Ohio and other states, has helped them develop communication skills and behaviors expected of older young adults. Department leaders, academy staff, and parents have consistently said that attendees have returned as responsible teenagers, with improved outlooks on life and education, along with enhanced social and behavioral skills, and a recognition that effort results in success and reward. They quickly learn to behave like a firefighter, work collectively as a team, support those that fall behind, and learn from those who know more.  Colonia Fire Department’s Junior Fire Academy program In addition, the Colonia Fire Department’s Junior Fire Academy program is a recruitment/community activity that highlights the OYFETA attendees. Designed to spur interest in the Explorer program, 7th and 8th grade students are invited to experience the physical skills and activities of a firefighter over two days. OYFETA graduates are paired with firefighters to serve as instructors. The success of the Colonia Explorer program has led to other fire departments seeking out their assistance, in creating or improving their own junior/Explorer programs. However, the greatest measure of the program’s success can be seen in the substantial number of former Explorers who are now in full-time fire and emergency services positions, in communities in New Jersey and across the country.

Campus-style and multifamily building complexes require advanced IT networking designs that challenge fire safety practices in new ways. In connecting to outside networks, up-to-date fire safety panels should utilize modular architectures that incorporate advances in network configuration, audio, survivability, and cybersecurity while supporting a variety of flexible network topologies such as mesh, star, and hybrid – all while complying with the latest codes and standards. In conjunction with these building design trends, Edwards has launched EST4, an advanced UL 864 and UL 2572-listed networked fire alarm and emergency communications platform for facilities that need to adapt now to a wider range of panel-to-panel alarm network configurations than traditional Class A and B wiring but that also want to scale for future growth. The EST4 system provides the capability of two-way communication with external devices, such as building management systems, enabling real-time system status and decision making from anywhere. Situation The developer of a five-story residential complex initiated a change order to implement a phased approach, allowing occupants to move into one section while construction was going on in other areas. The initially approved fire panel design was comprised of equipment centralized in one room to serve each wing of multiple floors, including: Three network nodes – circuits for a Class A network and two audio networks in different directions Additional annunciator with microphone and controls Auxiliary Power Supply (APS) panels with Input Modules (SIGA-MCC1s) for speaker circuits as well as strobe circuits to serve an entire wing of multiple floors A large amount of cabling would travel through areas under construction, but no circuit integrity (CI) cable was required either by code or the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for the fire alarm and voice communications systems in the initial system design. Challenge AHJ would only allow phased construction if the fire alarm system used CI cable in each wing’s centralized fire panel Upon review of the change order, the AHJ would only allow phased construction if the fire alarm system used CI cable in each wing’s centralized fire panel. Because the AHJ was concerned about the survivability of critical circuits, the CI cable requirement was intended to provide for standalone coverage as well as areas between phases. The initial design would have required not only the multiple Class A network cables to be run in CI cable, but also Signaling Line Circuit (SLC), strobe, speaker, and auxiliary power circuits. The project cost to install CI cabling with a 2-hour fire-resistance rating was expected to be in the six figures. Solution Applications Engineer Mike Murphy, SET, CFPS, of ADT Commercial, New Jersey Metro (an Edwards Authorized National Partner), recommended the situation could be addressed without the heavy CI requirements by installing EST4 panel technology. Bart Fraley from ADT Commercial took the concept and convened meetings with the electrical contractor, the project developer, and the AHJ to review the options. The EST4 system offered features that paved the way for the AHJ to reconsider the requirement for CI cable. Besides its simplified network cabling using only a single twisted pair to deliver network, audio, and remote microphones, the AHJ noted the EST4 system’s increased operability in a degraded mode such that: The system database, including the audio messages, could be stored digitally in each panel’s CPU (central processing unit), allowing the normal system messages and tones to be produced by one node if it became orphaned from the rest of the network A remote microphone could be added to each node without further cabling to enable local communication with the fire alarm panel Results Confident that his concerns about standalone fire panel performance had been addressed, the AHJ eliminated the requirement for CI cabling on the initiating and notification circuits for the simplified fire alarm network. In turn, the building owner saved approximately 25% of the installation cost in labor and cabling by switching to the EST4 platform, saving $200,000.

With commercial fires up 46% during lockdown, it’s crucial to understand and become more aware of the damage fire risks can have on a business when left undetected and unresolved. Fires can be a devastating experience for all, resulting in irreversible physical damage and, arguably more importantly, the unseen destruction of jobs, livelihoods, families and homes. While the risk of fire can never be completely eradicated, there are things you can do to help minimize the problem. More than simply guarding against a worst-case scenario, this is about making sure your business is as robust as possible. In other words, ensuring that you have in place effective protection long before a 911 call is required. Returning to work Evaluate how things may have changed since COVID-19 As businesses return to their premises, it’s a good idea to evaluate how things may have changed since COVID-19. Many premises remain either closed entirely, open for reduced hours or are operating with reduced staff. Even if you completed a fire risk assessment just before the pandemic began, it may need revisiting in light of these recent changes. For example, the amount of stock put into storage or the number of people using the building may have changed, and new risk factors may have emerged. Have employees trained as fire marshals been furloughed since the pandemic or unable to return to work? Any one of these factors being changed will require you to fill out a new fire risk assessment. If on the other hand, if your building remains unused – due to COVID-19 or other factors – it’s important to realize your responsibilities. Empty, unmanned buildings are at increased risk of break-ins and arson, failure to comply with best practice can put you at risk of insurance invalidation: Ensure that all keys to the building are accounted for and recovered. If any are missing, it is highly recommended that the locks are changed as soon as possible   Apart from essential services such as lighting or fire and security systems, disconnect all services and utilities at the perimeter of the building In winter, maintain temperatures at or above 4ºC to avoid frost damage to any sprinkler system or other essential water services. Drain down all tanks except those which specifically need to be used Remove as much combustible material as you can, especially litter and scattered paperwork Secure letter flaps, install an anti-arson metal box inside and redirect mail Given the variety of business premises it’s difficult to say what’s likely to be a cause of fire in any one situation – which is why it’s essential to have an up-to-date fire risk assessment carried out by someone who can provide a more in-depth assessment aligned with your ways of working. Getting this done will give you a good understanding of the potential causes of fire in your workplace and is a good place to start for any business owner. protection methods If your premises are largely empty due to COVID-19 restrictions, you must ensure you have a protection method in place that isn’t primarily dependent upon people, such as fire extinguishers or fire hoses. It is crucial to install and test a monitored smoke detection system or automatic fire sprinklers which can help protect the premises whilst it remains vacant. While you can never have too many systems in place to protect your business from fire, there are a few key ones to consider: Fire ExtinguishersThere are different fire extinguishers for different types of fire, your fire risk assessment will contain information on the ignition and fuel risks that are in your building and you should ensure that the correct type of device is selected, either mounted on the wall or a special stand with a label that shows the types of fire the extinguisher is suitable for and basic operating instructions. Sprinkler SystemsModern Automatic Fire Suppression Systems, commonly called sprinklers, can save lives and livelihoods. They provide protection from fire damage and, most importantly, give people a greater chance of getting out if there is a blaze. If you’re unlucky enough to have a fire they can significantly reduce the cost of the damage it causes by reducing its spread and severity. Monitored Smoke and Fire AlarmsWhether your building is currently unoccupied or you’re starting to return to work, having a monitored smoke detector and fire alarm allow you to rest easy knowing that even if the battery is low or there’s a technical fault, they’re still effective. Fire alarm systems such as those from ADT are monitored 24/7/365 which help you rest assured knowing you can depend on your system and our team to take care of things even when you’re not close by. Fire Hose ReelsA level up from extinguishers, fire hose reels offer a quick and inexhaustible flow of water. They can be installed by a single technician, minimising disruption to your business, and in an emergency they’re easy to identify and use. Emergency LightingAll fire-fighting equipment and alarms, emergency routes and exits must be well lit. That includes lighting at every door, corridor, floor level, staircase. Your emergency lighting should, of course, be tested regularly. In the event of a fire, you’ll want to get out quickly and safely.

The majority of fires within the UK take place within the home; with that in mind, it is highly advisable to regularly update and practice exit strategies in the event of an emergency. In order to raise awareness of fire safety in our communities, it’s important to be clear on what the most common causes of household fires are. Electrical appliances Electrical items are a major culprit of home fires. This can easily be avoided by ensuring a PAT test is carried out each year. It’s crucial to replace damaged or frayed wiring around outlets and to dispose old or faulty appliances. Never overcrowd electrical outlets and only use extension cords when necessary. Overwhelming units by ‘daisy chaining’ extensions to fit more appliances leads to higher chances of an electrical fire. All electrical appliances should additionally be repaired or installed According to the London Fire Brigade, around 60 percent of fires in the home begin in the kitchenby a certified professional.   It’s also worth keeping an eye on sockets and fuses that blow for no reason. Flickering lights and scorch marks on sockets or plugs are easy signs which can alert you to unsafe environments. A common habit is to leave electrical items unattended overnight on ‘standby’ mode, this should always be switched off when not in continual use to avoid overheating. Whilst personal home assistant devices are meant to be in constant operation, be sure to look out for hot plugs and turn off outlets when you will be out of the house for extended periods of time such as holidays or weekends away. Smoking materials, lighters and matches The festive season sees a 12% surge in call-outs compared to the monthly average and over the last three years, fire crews dealt with 2,300 fires on Christmas Day alone. When celebrating the festivities try safer alternatives such as battery-operated or LED candles. Faux candles are a great substitute, particularly if you are living with young children. Always let hot matches cool in a metal or ceramic dish or run them under water for extra precaution. Keeping matches nearby lit candles or leaving lit candles unattended overnight are palpable dangers within the home. When celebrating festivities, try safer alternatives such as battery-operated or LED candles Space heaters Portable heaters are the cause of many UK home fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Half of those fires occur because objects are kept within three feet of the heater getting far too hot and catching alight. Keeping flammable items at the recommended distance is essential warding off potential fires. Refrain from covering heaters or air vents with dry or damp washing, even if you have installed a fireguard. While some space heaters utilize a self-timer or sleep feature, be sure to manually switch off the heater when it’s not in use. By assuming the heater will automatically turn itself off, you leave yourself at risk as the heater may malfunction. Additionally, as self-timers only control the product itself and not the outlet, the plug still may be at risk of overheating. Cooking According to the London Fire Brigade, around 60 percent of fires in the home begin in the kitchen. It is crucial to be aware of your safety whilst cooking, with some points to always consider: Try not to leave cooking unattended on the hob or grill – if you leave the kitchen turn off the heat Do not cook whilst under the influence of alcohol or medication that can cause drowsiness Be aware of loose clothing that can easily catch fire, take care not to lean over a hob and always keep tea towels and clothes away from the cooker In the event of loose clothing or a cloth catching fire; practice the stop, drop and roll rule – don’t run, lie down on the ground and roll in heavy fabric or a fire blanket to smother the flames Keep the oven, hob, extractor fan and grill as clean as possible – built up fat and grease can ignite and cause fires Use spark devices to light gas cookers, they are far safer than matches or lighters as they don’t have a naked flame. Ensure toasters are kept clean and not placed under kitchen cabinets Never place anything made of metal in a microwave When cooking on the stove-top, use the fan or open a window to disperse any smoke and avoid accidentally triggering any fire alarm If water or food spillages occur whilst the hobs are on and in use, turn off the heat, remove any pans, and let it cool before using any cleaning equipment Preventing spreading  To prevent fires from spreading, it’s important to check hidden electrical outlets, particularly those behind large pieces of furniture such as television stands or couches – be sure to keep enough distance between the object and the outlet to prevent crowding. Check these out of sight outlets once a month to ensure there are no obvious signs of scorch marks. It is also a good idea to ensure you add an outlet inspection to any checklist before leaving on holiday. Good fire safety precautions can be practiced as part of your daily routine. Ensure you keep a torch and phone by your bed in case of a fire during the night. Install a dual alarm that uses long-life lithium batteries on every level of your home (including the basement). Test smoke alarms monthly to make sure they’re working properly and ensure you take the time to replace batteries every year for complete peace of mind. Test smoke alarms monthly to make sure they’re working properly and ensure you take the time to replace batteries An exit strategy  If you find yourself trapped with no feasible exit to safety, get everyone into one room, ideally with a window and a phone and place bedding around the bottom of To prevent fires from spreading, it’s important to check hidden electrical outlets, particularly those behind large pieces of furniture the door to stifle smoke. Call 999 when possible and open the window to let your presence be known. If you’re on the ground or first floor, you may be able to escape through a window. Use bedding to cushion your fall and lower yourself down carefully – don’t jump. If you can’t open the window break the glass in the bottom corner and make jagged edges safer by cushioning glass with a towel or thick blanket. Don’t make the mistake of investigating what’s happened in the event of a fire or rescuing valuables. If there’s smoke, keep low where the air is clearer. In the event of having to open a door, check if it’s warm. If it is, don’t open it – it is likely the fire is on the other side.