Westhoek (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Kristof Louagie from the Westhoek fire zone emphasizes the importance of having a fire escape plan, including installing smoke detectors and keeping doors closed. Families should practice drills, know multiple exits, and designate a meeting place outside
According to Kristof Louagie from the Westhoek fire zone, it is very important to have a good escape plan for fires. He points out that taking steps like installing smoke detectors and keeping doors closed can help save lives. He mentioned that families should know the fastest and safest ways to exit each room.
Kristof Louagie mentioned that it is best to have at least two ways out if possible. Drawing a map of the home with exits is useful, but practice is needed, too. Everyone, including kids, should know what to do during a fire. Drills should include different situations, like getting out in the dark. Families should also decide who will help pets and who will call for help when they are outside.
“A well-prepared escape plan is of great importance,”
says spokesperson Kristof
Louagie.
“Together with smoke detectors and keeping the doors in your house closed, it will save you a lot of time if a fire breaks out.”
How can families effectively prepare for fire emergencies?
According to authorities, keeping doors closed is an important safety measure during a fire. Closed doors can slow down the spread of fire and smoke, giving people more time to escape. When leaving a room, it is helpful to close the door behind you.
They mentioned that having a meeting place outside is also essential. This helps everyone know where to go and ensures no one goes back into the burning building. The meeting spot should be easy to find, like a neighbour’s house or a spot in the yard. By planning and practising the escape plan, families can improve their chances of getting out safely. Good planning can save lives and reduce panic when time is critical.
The fire brigade has created a fun film to show how everyday items can block escape routes. Kristof Louagie, from the Westhoek fire zone, explains that the film features a laundry basket at the bottom of a staircase. This shows how items like school bags, shoes, or bicycles can become hazards. These objects may seem harmless, but they can stop people from escaping safely during a fire. The fire brigade wants to remind everyone to keep escape routes clear in their homes.
According to authorities, the fire brigade is spreading the safety message through different ways, like posters and information sessions. These sessions give practical tips on fire safety. They mentioned that they help people understand why clear escape routes are important and teach them about other safety measures, like where to place smoke detectors.
For those who want more help, the fire brigade offers home visits. Fire safety experts come to people’s homes to look at the layout and give specific advice on where to put smoke detectors for the best results. They mentioned that this hands-on approach helps people get useful advice for their own homes. By using stories, education, and direct help, the fire brigade wants to create lasting safety habits that can save lives.
“We chose the laundry basket, which is at the bottom of the stairs. But it could just as easily be school bags or a bicycle in the hallway,”
Says Louagie.
In a fire, having a clear escape plan is very important. The fire department mentioned that people should know the best ways to get out and where the emergency exits are. Practice fire drills at least twice a year, especially if people have kids or older people at home.
Fire department said that when the smoke alarm rings, take it seriously. Always shout “FIRE!” to alert everyone. Close doors behind you as you leave to slow the fire down. If there is smoke, stay low to the ground, where the air is safer. Use a cloth to cover your nose and mouth to help filter out smoke.
They mentioned that once people are safely outside, they should call 112 right away. Tell them where the fire is and if anyone is still inside. Do not go back into the building, even if you think you forgot something. Fires can grow quickly. Always tell the firefighters if you think someone is trapped inside. Authorities mentioned that the fire department knows how to help in these situations. Following these steps can keep you and others safe.
