A piece of equipment that simulates what it is like to be trapped in a smoke filled room will be on display at a community safety event this week.
An inflatable ‘smoke house’ will be part of Partners Against Crime which is taking place at Medina Leisure Centre in Newport this coming Saturday (12 February) and visitors will be encouraged to take part in demonstrations.
The house works by being filled with harmless cosmetic smoke and is designed to show people the recommended procedures for escaping from a smoke-filled room in the event of a real fire.
During the demonstration, fire officers will supervise participants both inside and outside.
Stuart May is Assistant Chief Fire Officer with the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and says the inflatable smoke house is a very valuable tool, saying: “Being in a room filling with smoke is a very frightening experience and people can become disorientated which is very dangerous in a real fire.
“Although totally harmless, being inside the inflatable smoke room does simulate what you would experience in a fire situation and will show you the methods you should follow to escape if you are ever involved in a real fire. It is therefore a very important piece of equipment that will ultimately help save lives.”
The inflatable smoke room will be part of Partners Against Crime on 12 February which will be held between 1000 – 1530.
The cosmetic smoke may affect those that suffer from asthma, specific allergies and other similar medical conditions which may cause a slight allergic reaction. The smoke may also cause disorientation and anyone who feels they need to be accompanied should ensure they have someone with them.
Parents are encouraged to accompany their children for the demonstration.
