Rapid Fire

'Rapid Fire' is a new game to help you become more aware of fire safety and consider your escape plans in the event of a fire. Work your way through the series of mini-games by matching up the keys, clearing the exits, shutting doors, and planning your escape.
   
As you get higher up in the levels, the games get progressively harder and faster. It becomes quite addictive and is a great game for procrastinators (as I can attest!). A ‘Rapid Fire’ challenge has been set in our office, the current top score coming in at 15,000.

The game, whilst a lot of fun, also has a more serious message behind it. Ask yourself: do you have a ‘plan B’ if your escape route is blocked? Where are your keys – are they within safe reach if you need them? Are all your exits cleared and free of stuff so you can get out quickly? Whilst you may not have a kite or a snowboard blocking your doors, it does give you something to think about.
   
The game is a good asset on the part of its creators – not only is it engaging and enjoyable to play, it also challenges you to get wise and learn about the risks. Where some campaigns may come across as preachy, this is a neat way to encourage people to find out more about the subject.

It also asks another question; how much do you know about fire safety and what to do in the event of a fire? Shutting doors can slow a fire’s progress, giving you more time to get out. If you feel like you could, or should, know more about fire safety, DirectGov have a website detailing all you need to know: http://85.90.233.207/firekills/index.html
   
Having fire prevention methods in place can save lives. Just by checking electrical equipment for faulty wires, making sure the batteries in your fire alarm are working, and keeping a fire blanket or extinguisher in the kitchen can all help to stop lives being put at risk.

All these things are important and need to be considered in case of fire: seconds can mean the difference between staying safe and getting out, and well…not.
   
So now we pass the baton to you. Think you can keep up? Go test your reactions and take the Fire Kills challenge!