What to do in an emergency

General advice about what to do in a large scale emergency

• Make sure someone has called 999 if people are injured or there is a threat to life.
• Don't put yourself or others in danger.
• Follow the advice of the emergency services.
• Try to remain calm, think before acting and try and reassure others.
• Check for injuries, help yourself before you help others.
• Let your loved ones know if you are safe and well.

If you are not involved in the incident but are nearby and believe you are in danger, in most cases the advice is go in, stay in, tune in

• Go inside a safe building.
• Stay inside until you are told otherwise.
• Tune into a local radio or to the TV (BBC News 24 or Sky News) for more information.

Don't forget

• Ensure you have access to ready cash as ATMs will be heavily used.
• If you have a long commute pre plan a list of local hotels close to your work, you may have to stay there if public transport is shut down.
• See if you can keep spare clothing/toiletries at work.

Fires

• Reduce fire hazards in your home.
• If there is a fire dial 999, get out and stay out.
• Never use a lift in the event of a fire.
• If trapped in a building or moving in smoke stay close to the floor.
• Never open a warm or hot door as there may be fire on the other side.
• Contact the London Fire Brigade for a free Home Fire Safety Visit.
• Fit and maintain smoke alarms in your home, one per floor.
• Plan an exit route from your home as most fire deaths occur when people are asleep.

Bombs and explosions

• If you are inside a building look for the safest way out.
• It might be safer to stay in the building, follow advice.
• Keep away from glass areas.
• If a bomb explodes outside your building keep away from windows as there may be a second device.

If you are trapped inside a building

• Stay close to a wall for added protection.
• Tap on pipes to attract attention.
• Don't use naked flames.

If you have seen the explosion or anything suspicious tell a police officer.

Chemical and biological incidents

• The Fire Brigade can decontaminate people using a variety of methods.
• If you are contaminated do not leave the scene, wait for help.

Power failure

• Turn off electrical/gas/water appliances that would automatically switch on when power is restored.
• Consider whether or not you can safely stay in your premises whilst power is being restored.
• Have in stock torches with batteries, candles and matches but think safety.
• Carefully check your home before you leave.

Around your home

• Know how to turn off your gas, water and electricity
• Know how your family will keep in contact in an emergency.
• Know any school emergency procedures for your children.
• Make sure you are adequately insured for your contents and building and keep policy details handy.
• Know your workplace emergency procedures.
• Keep a list of useful phone numbers either on your mobile phone or in a notebook.
• Be aware of the location of your valuables and critical documents in case you have to take them with you in an emergency.
• As above, for clothing, toiletries.
• Think! What would I need to do if I had no electricity/gas/water for 48 hours.
• Keep a box handy containing torches, batteries, candles, matches, first aid kit.

Evacuating your home

You may have to leave your home temporarily for a number of reasons including a flood, power failure, gas escape, crime scene or a fire. If you have time;

• Secure and check your premises and turn off appliances.
• Take a supply of sensible shoes/clothing, toiletries and towel.
• Take cash, credit card, mobile phone & charger, house keys and laptop.
• Take personal prescribed medication.
• Take your spectacles/dentures if your wear them.
• Think about your pets.
• Think 48 hours ahead, take what you need.

When you are out and about

• Keep a credit card and some cash on you.
• Keep your mobile phone charged.
• In summer carry a bottle of water.
• In winter have warm clothing including hat and gloves.