Fire Safety Information for Healthcare

Fires in health care facilities, such as hospitals, nursing homes and clinics, pose a serious threat that can cause loss of lives unless fire safety plans are detailed, in place and known by employees, according to the City of Seattle, Washington's Fire Department. Having good fire emergency plans is essential to ensure patient safety.

Potential Fire Risks

• The Seattle Fire Department states the most common cause of health care facility fires is smoking. Health care employees should know facility smoking rules and enforce them. The second most common reason for fire is faulty equipment or equipment improperly used. Pay special attention to cracked or split power cables and overloaded extension cords.

Responding to Fires

• Employees should know facility fire safety and emergency plans. Be aware of where your facility's fire extinguishers and fire alarms are and how to use them. In case of fire, knowing how to move patients from the facility safely and quickly is also essential.

RACE

• RACE is recognized by fire professionals as a way to remember what to do when a fire breaks out. The "R" stands for rescuing any person affected by the fire. "A" is for activating an alarm if you discover a fire or responding right away when you hear an alarm. "C" means confining the fire by closing doors to contain smoke and flame. "E" means extinguish the fire, but only if the fire is small and can be put out safely, according to the Seattle Fire Department.