The fire service must be called as soon as the fire alarm is sounded. 6.3 Evacuation of the Building. A calm orderly evacuation can only be achieved if people know what the fire alarm sounds like, what to do when they hear the fire alarm, and have practised procedures by holding regular drills. It is a fact that on hearing a fire alarm, people will attempt to leave a building by the route or exit with which they, are most familiar. If a fire blocks that route or exit, confusion and panic will often result.
Constant practice is the best way of familiarising people with correct procedure.
The plan should take into account and identify the needs of persons with disabilities working in, or visiting buildings. Appendix 3 gives guidance on procedures that can be adopted. 6.5 Attacking the fire. Firefighting by employees should only be attempted if it is safe to do so. It is unrealistic to promulgate a procedure whereby even the smallest fire is left to burn pending the arrival of the fire service.