Safety in case of fire

Learn quick and safe measures to act in the event of a fire and protect lives. Follow the correct guidelines and avoid unnecessary risks.

Fires can occur unexpectedly and cause irreparable damage, both material and human life. Whether at home, at work or in public spaces, following certain safety measures and with agility can make a difference.

While the initial instinct is to try to put out the fire, this action can aggravate the situation, especially if you're not properly equipped or trained. Inappropriate water use, for example, can spread fire, especially if it's caused by electricity or cooking oil. Throwing water into an electrical fire can result in an electric shock or explosion, while in an oil fire, water can cause the flames to spread even more quickly.

What should be done? How to react in the event of a fire?

Call the Fire Department immediately at number 193

It's important to make this call as soon as you notice any sign of fire, even a small one, to ensure that combat is quick and effective. The sooner the rescue is triggered, the greater the chances of controlling the flames before they spread.

Follow the instructions of the firefighters who are on site

They are professionals trained to handle emergencies and have technical knowledge on how to evacuate the site safely. Don't try to act on your own; following instructions can ensure your safety and that of others.

Set off the nearest fire alarm to alert everyone in the building or environment

This procedure is essential so that everyone is notified quickly of the impending danger and can begin the evacuation process immediately. The alarm is the first step in a coordinated response. Immediate communication allows everyone to be aware of the seriousness of the situation and to understand the need to act quickly.

Use the signposted emergency exits to leave the place safely

These routes were designed precisely for mass evacuations and are the most efficient way to ensure that everyone can get out quickly. Even if the lighting fails during the fire, the emergency lights will kick in to guide the path to the exit.

Avoid using elevators in fire situations as they may fail due to heat or lack of power

Emergency staircases are the safest alternative. Always descend the right side of the stairs, holding the handrail, to facilitate the movement of rescue teams that may be climbing to fight the fire.

Protect yourself from smoke by covering your mouth and nose with a cloth, preferably moistened, to reduce the inhalation of toxic gases

If the amount of smoke is large, lower yourself or crawl, as the air near the floor tends to be cleaner and more breathable. This can be crucial to prevent suffocation as you make your way to the exit.

Prevention is always the best way to avoid problems

Pay attention when using flammable materials and ensure that fire extinguishers are in easily accessible places

Incorrect use of electrical energy can cause fire

Most of the fires that occur in houses or apartments are caused by overloading the electrical grid. For this reason, Neoenergia has separated some tips to avoid this situation.

Be aware, a short circuit can cause fire

The short circuit occurs when there is an overload when using “T” or “benjamins” sockets. The use of this material to connect various devices is an example of an irregular load inside homes, which can generate a fire. Neoenergia advises that this object should not be used. The safest thing is to connect equipment with compatible powers to an outlet designed for this purpose.

Follow the safety instructions in case of a short circuit at home

When the outlet is showing a spark, you need to turn off the house's general circuit breaker, then call an electrician you trust. Never remove the outlet that is causing the short circuit yourself. Under no circumstances try to extinguish smoke, spark or fire by throwing water, since this element is an electrical conductor, it can spread the fire even more and cause an electric shock.

Activate the power distributor in case of fire in a pole, household, or commercial area

Turning off the power supply temporarily can help save lives. Call the power distribution company that serves your region.

For Neoenergia Coelba, Neoenergia Cosern, Neoenergia Pernambuco and Neoenergia Brasília: call 116 and Neoenergia Elektro: call 0800 701 0102.

Thus, the distributor may temporarily shut off the electrical grid until the situation is stabilized by the Fire Department. The service will be immediately re-established when the incident presents security for the population, while the distribution company's professionals are working to assist the firefighters.