On the third day of the violent fire in the Corbières massif, in Aude more than 16,000 hectares left for smoke. This Thursday morning, the authorities confirm that the fire remains “active” although its intensity has decreased. Mobilizing more than 2,100 firefighters on the ground, this blaze caused the death of a resident, found in his house in Saint-Laurent-de-la-Cabrerisse. While some families had to flee their homes, how to react effectively if the flames are approaching? Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor, shares the gestures that can save.
Fire always active in the corbières despite a relative lull
Despite a less violent wind than at the beginning of the week, the fire continues to bite the Corbières massif, in the Aude. The firefighters, supported by reinforcements from other departments, still lead a fierce fight on the ground. The prefecture asked the population to stay away from the area, and not to hinder the emergency services. Colonel Christophe Magny, hope “set fire during the day“. He explains that”fire decreased in its progress“, but it remains”90 kilometers of edges“which are difficult to access. Reason why”The fire is still not fixed“, Concludes colonel. The prefect of Aude continues to make points on the situation on X.
The right reflexes to adopt in the face of a fire according to an emergency doctor
Dr. Gérald Kierzek insists on the importance of limiting the spread of fire within his home. “”The first reflex to have is to prevent fire from spreading“, he explains. In the event of evacuation, he recommends closing all the doors behind you, because”A closed door considerably slows the spread of flames and smoke“, not to break the windows because”Oxygen supply supplies the fire“, and if possible cut ventilation and air conditioning systems”to avoid smoke circulation“.
If the fire is declared on the upper floor, it must be flee immediately by taking the stairs. “”Immediately leave the premises by the stairs, without ever taking the elevator“, Recommends the doctor. In the presence of smoke, it is essential to walk bent because”Fresh air is close to the ground“, and always test the doors’ temperature before opening them:”If they are hot, do not pass“.
When staying there becomes safer than fleeing
If the evacuation is made impossible, it is better to remain confined at home, says Dr. Kierzek. “”It is the surest if the evacuation is impossible“, he explains. He advises to cap all the openings”with damp cloths to block smoke“, to point out to the emergency services at the window and calmly wait for their arrival.”Well -isolated accommodation can resist a long time“.
Finally, if you are surrounded by the flames or your clothes take fire, every second counts. “”To do this, cover with a damp blanket-avoiding plastic materials-and roll on the ground if your clothes set fire, without running“Continues Dr. Gérald Kierzek.
And to prevent the worst?
Upstream of such a fire, adopt the right reflexes:
“”Regularly check the smoke detectors, know the emergency exits of your building and keep the stairs and corridors released – by freeing them from any bulky object“Concludes the medical director of True Medical.