As we know, fire has the potential to destroy property and life within minutes. No matter what size, legally all establishments should have:

• Clear well signed emergency exits;

• Fire extinguishers and blankets available and in working order;

• Staff trained in an evacuation plan and procedures;

• Smoke and fire alarms installed; Lifts marked "in the event of a fire do not use lifts".

The person in charge of evaluation procedures should locate and report type of fire and any injuries by calling "000", fight fire if in a contained area - only if safe to do so, and direct staff to follow evacuation procedures if necessary. 

Staff and clients, once safely evacuated, must then be accounted for. Do not return into the premises until the fire brigade or police say it is safe. The steps below indicate initial action in the event of a fire.