As parents, we ask a million questions when choosing a school for our children — about academics, sports, hygiene, security. But here’s one that often gets overlooked: Is your child’s school fire-safe? With increasing fire incidents in educational institutions across India, this is not just a precaution—it’s a necessity.
Every school must meet school fire safety norms to protect students and staff from the unimaginable. But sadly, many institutions are unprepared. It’s time to shift our focus from just curriculum to school fire safety, because no grade, game, or goal is worth risking young lives.
This article outlines six critical questions every parent should ask their child’s school. These checks are not only practical—they could be life-saving. So let’s talk about school fire safety, not in theory, but in action.
1. Has the School Completed a Fire Safety Audit Recently?
The first thing you should ask is whether the school has undergone a recent fire safety audit in schools. This audit ensures that all fire-related precautions, evacuation procedures, and equipment meet safety standards.
Many schools skip this step or do it just once to get approval. But regular audits (at least once a year) are necessary. Don’t hesitate to ask for a copy or date of their latest fire audit report.
2. Is There Proper Fire Safety Equipment in Schools?
What’s worse than a fire breaking out in a school? Not having the tools to fight it. Functional extinguishers, fire alarms, smoke detectors, and hose reels must be installed and maintained.
Parents should check if there’s adequate fire safety equipment in schools, especially in kitchens, labs, and auditoriums. Extinguishers should be serviced, visible, and easy for staff to use.
To see how an advanced extinguisher can make a difference, check out this firekiller fire extinguisher — a compact, easy-to-use solution even children can be taught to operate.
3. Are School Fire Drill Procedures Practiced Regularly?
A plan is only as good as its practice. Schools may have a fancy-looking evacuation chart, but are they conducting real drills? Ask the school how often school fire drill procedures are carried out.
Ideally, students should participate in drills once every quarter. They should know where to go, what exit to use, and whom to follow. Teachers and support staff should also be trained to lead evacuations calmly.
4. Is There a Fire Safety Checklist for Schools?
Schools should maintain a clear, visible, and regularly updated fire safety checklist for schools. This checklist must include daily checks (like ensuring exits aren’t blocked), weekly equipment inspections, and monthly fire system tests.
The absence of such a checklist often leads to overlooked hazards like stacked flammable materials or locked exits. Ask the management: “What items are on your fire safety checklist?” Their answer will reveal a lot about their preparedness.
5. Are Staff Trained in Fire Prevention in Educational Institutions?
It’s not just about reacting to fire but preventing it in the first place. Sadly, many schools lack staff who are trained in fire prevention in educational institutions.
Ensure the school has conducted proper fire safety training sessions for teachers, guards, and canteen workers. They should know how to spot risks like overheating appliances or exposed wires—and act before disaster strikes.
Schools should collaborate with certified agencies for fire safety training, like mock drills, extinguisher use, and basic evacuation response.
👉 You can read more about this in our blog:
Is Your Office Fire-Safe? 7 Essential Fire Safety Tips Every Workplace Must Follow – because whether it’s an office or a school, preparedness is must.
6. Are Emergency Exits Accessible and Clearly Marked?
During a fire, panic spreads fast. Clearly marked, unblocked emergency exits can mean the difference between safety and tragedy.
Visit the school if you can. Walk the corridors. Are there signs pointing to exits? Are the exits free of clutter? If an exit is locked or obstructed, that’s a serious red flag.
A Final Note to Parents
Fire safety is not just the school’s responsibility—it’s yours too. Ask questions, demand answers, and raise concerns if something feels unsafe. You’re not being difficult—you’re being protective.Not only in schools.Fire safety traning is essential at
