Everyone knows to be aware of fire exits in their own homes. It's important to know your way out quickly in case of fire. But what would you do if a fire occurred while you're shopping in a department store, visiting your dentist, watching a movie in a theatre or attending a musical, concert or play in a crowded auditorium? Experience tells Tioga Fire Protection and Fire Prevention that you would get out the only way you remember... the way you came in. That reaction is typical and deadly.
In a theatre, for instance, all patrons trickle in through one door near the ticket taker. In the theatre is full, a fire occurs and everyone tries to get out the way they came in, obviously they all won't fit. Fear may then cause people to panic and push and shove. Injuries occur; people are trampled. This compounds an already serious situation.
Instead, when you enter any public building, check out the exits. Note where they are and keep track of the ones nearest you. Make this a habit and teach your children to check out exits too. If you ever noticed a marked exit door chained or locked from the inside, call the management and have it open. If they refuse, leaves and call the fire department immediately.
(The usual disclaimers: I am not a journalist; this is a blog that expresses an outlook and is not conclusive in any shape or manner.)
