Questions
Questions answered
Short, self-contained answers about everyday fire safety. Each answer can be read on its own without opening the others. Where a question needs a fuller explanation, we link to the practical article or the glossary. Specific facts — phone numbers, laws and fire classes — are taken from official Russian documents; for how to maintain a device, see the manufacturer's instructions and the product data sheet.
If you are not sure whether to call, call. An operator would rather take an unnecessary call than hear about a fire too late.
In a fire or if you smell gas
Whom should I call if a fire starts?
In Russia, call 101 for the fire service, including from a mobile phone, or 112, the single emergency number; abroad, call your local emergency number (for example 112 in the EU or 911 in the US). Say what is on fire, give the address and say whether anyone is inside.
What should I do if there is smoke in the stairwell or the flat?
Leave the premises, close doors behind you, keep low if there is smoke, do not use the lift and do not go back for belongings. If your way out is cut off, shut yourself in a room away from the smoke, call 101 or 112 and go to the window.
My flat smells of gas. What should I do?
Do not switch lights or appliances on or off and do not use any open flame. Open the windows, leave the premises and, once outside, call the emergency gas service on 104 or call 112. Do not try to repair gas equipment yourself.
Can I put out a small fire myself?
A small fire can sometimes be put out straight away, for example by covering a pan with a lid. But if the fire is spreading or there is smoke, do not take risks: get out and call 101 or 112. Never use water on live electrical appliances or burning oil.
Smoke alarms and fire extinguishers
What is a standalone smoke alarm?
It is a device that sounds a loud alarm when it detects smoke. It is fitted on the ceiling, checked with the test button, and its battery is replaced according to the manufacturer's instructions. It is especially useful at night, when people are asleep and cannot smell smoke.
Which fire extinguisher is right for the home?
Extinguishers come in powder, carbon dioxide, water and foam types. The body shows which classes of fire a particular model is suitable for. Choose by the label and read the instructions on the body in advance.
How often should an extinguisher be checked and recharged?
The procedure and intervals for checking and recharging are given in the product data sheet and the manufacturer's instructions — follow those. We do not give general intervals because they depend on the type and model of extinguisher.
What do the letters on a fire extinguisher mean?
They are fire classes under the Russian classification in Article 8 of Federal Law No. 123-FZ: A — combustible solids, B — flammable liquids and melting solids, C — gases, D — metals, E — live electrical installations, F — nuclear and radioactive materials.
The dacha, stoves and wiring
Why shouldn't I burn dry grass and rubbish on my plot?
Dry grass burns fast, and in the wind fire easily spreads to fences, outbuildings and neighbouring plots. In addition, restrictions on lighting fires apply during the fire-hazard season — follow announcements from the local authorities and EMERCOM of Russia.
How do I use a stove at the dacha safely?
Have a specialist inspect the stove and chimney before the season. Never leave a lit stove unattended, do not leave it to children, do not dry clothes next to it and do not light it with flammable liquids.
What should I do if a socket or extension lead gets hot?
Unplug the appliances and do not use the socket or lead until it has been checked. Heat, a burning smell and sparking are signs of overload or a fault. Leave wiring repairs to an electrician.
What should I do if smoke appears in my car?
Stop in a safe place, switch off the engine, get all passengers out and move away from the car. Call 101 or 112. Do not open the bonnet wide if smoke is coming from under it or flames are visible.
Related sections
Sources
- Federal Law No. 69-FZ “On Fire Safety”
- Federal Law No. 123-FZ “Technical Regulations on Fire Safety Requirements”
- Fire Safety Regulations of the Russian Federation (Government Decree No. 1479)
- EMERCOM of Russia — safety leaflets for the public
Information is current as of the date of preparation. The Russian Fire Safety Regulations, federal laws and EMERCOM of Russia leaflets are updated from time to time, so check the requirements in force in the official documents, and check how to maintain a specific device in the manufacturer's instructions and the product data sheet.