Stop, Drop, Cover and Roll
Stop, Drop, Cover and Roll is a procedure used to extinguish a person’s clothing that has caught alight.
- Step one
If a person’s clothing should catch on fire they should immediately stop where they are as running will fan the flames.
- Step two
The person should then drop to the ground immediately.
- Step three
Once on the ground the person should cover their face with their hands to prevent burns to the face and stop smoke entering the respiratory system.
- Step four
To assist a person with burning clothing roll them back and forth on the ground, or smother the flames with a fire blanket.
Never beat the fire as this only increases oxygen flow to the fire, causing the fire to grow larger.
Tips to protect your property from fire
- Install mains powered smoke alarms
- Develop and practice an Escape Plan with household members
- When installing security, always select a licensed installer
- When installing heating systems only used qualified tradesmen
- Guard open fires with a fine mesh screen to prevent sparks and logs falling out
- Clean chimney and flues regularly from built-up ash and soot
- Be alert when cooking and never leave food unattended
- Never leave lit cigarettes to burn unattended
- Never leave children unattended with candles, matches and lighters
- Only purchase fire blankets and extinguishers that meet Australian Standards
- Know what to do if a person’s clothing catches on fire; stop, drop, cover and roll