Fire SafetyFires are unpredictable, dangerous, and can escalate in seconds. Whether it’s a house fire, a camping accident, or a workplace mishap, knowing how to respond quickly can be the difference between life and death. One of the most terrifying scenarios is yourself catching on fire. In that moment, panic can take over, but it is important to know what to exactly do because it can save your life and minimize injury.
In this blog post, we’ll break down the classic fire safety response and expand on what to do if you ever find yourself in the unfortunate situation of catching on fire.
The Golden Rule: Stop, Drop, and Roll
You’ve probably heard this phrase before — Stop, Drop, and Roll — and for good reason. It’s the foundational response taught to children and adults alike, and it still holds up today. Here’s what it means and why it works:
- Stop: The instinct to run is natural, but it’s the worst thing you can do. Running fuels the flames by feeding them more oxygen. You must stop immediately to prevent the fire from growing.
- Drop: Get to the ground quickly and carefully. Lying down helps protect your face and limits how fast the flames can move upward, since fire rises.
- Roll: Roll over and over on the ground, covering your face with your hands to protect it. The goal is to smother the flames by depriving them of oxygen.
More Than Just Rolling: Additional Fire Safety Steps
While Stop, Drop, and Roll is essential, there are other critical steps and alternatives that can increase your chances of escaping with minimal injury:
1. Remove Burning Clothing (If Safe to Do So)
If the flames are limited to an outer layer of clothing that can be quickly and safely removed, do so. Be careful not to burn your hands or spread the fire by dragging flames across your body. If clothes are stuck to your skin, do not try to peel them off.
2. Use Water if Available
If you’re near a body of water — a lake, pool, or even a bathtub — and it’s safe to access, jump in. Water can quickly extinguish flames and cool your burns. Even splashing yourself or using a fire extinguisher (if nearby) can help.
3. Use a Blanket or Coat to Smother Flames
If someone nearby has a heavy blanket, coat, or towel, they can help extinguish the fire by wrapping you in it. Avoid synthetic materials, which can melt; use cotton or wool if possible.
After the Fire Is Out: Get Help Immediately
Once the flames are out, seek medical attention right away. Burns can be deceptive — even if they don’t look severe, they can cause long-term damage, lead to infections, or result in shock. Here’s what to do next:
- Call 911 or emergency services immediately.
- Do not apply ice or butter to burns — instead, use cool (not cold) water if available.
- Cover burns with a clean cloth or sterile dressing.
- Stay calm and keep breathing slowly — anxiety and pain can lead to hyperventilation or shock.
Prevention is Key
Of course, the best way to survive catching on fire is to avoid the risk in the first place. Here are a few fire prevention tips:
- Avoid loose clothing near open flames.
- Store flammable materials properly.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it.
- Install and test smoke alarms regularly.
- Educate others, especially children, on fire safety practices.
Final Thoughts
Catching on fire is a terrifying experience, but with the right knowledge and immediate actions, survival is possible. Remember: stay calm, act fast, and follow the steps — Stop, Drop, and Roll, or extinguish flames with water or fabric if available.
Preparedness saves lives. Share this knowledge with friends and family so everyone knows what to do if the worst happens. Stay safe and stay vigilant.
Why choose Fire Shield Fire Protection?
At Fire Shield Fire Protection, our mission goes beyond providing code-compliant fire protection services—we’re here to educate, empower, and help you take proactive steps in safeguarding what matters most: your people, your property, and your peace of mind.
Through our ongoing safety tips, industry insights, and expert advice, you’ll gain valuable knowledge to stay ahead of potential fire risks in both residential and commercial environments. Whether you’re a business owner, property manager, or homeowner, we believe that safety begins with awareness and preparation.
Stay tuned for regular updates featuring practical safety checklists, seasonal fire prevention tips, emergency response guides, and more—all designed to help you create a safer, more informed environment.
Because at Fire Shield, we don’t just protect buildings—we protect lives.
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