When in a public building or venue children and adults alike are protected, warned and guided about the hazards of fire.
This is done by the displaying of safety signs, the provision of fire fighting equipment and most importantly the means and routes of escape.
Knowledge of symbols and pictogram signs and what they relate to is essential for the safety of children to recognise in case of emergency.
Exit recognition is paramount for a child's safety in case of fire.
Colours and Shapes Triangular shapes are normally 'warning' signs with a yellow background and have a black triangular band around the edge; the warning will be in the form of a pictogram or printed black text.
A good example of this would be 'Electricity'.
Circular shapes with a white background, surrounded by a red band with a red bar diagonally across the sign are normally 'prohibition' signs.
An excellent example would be 'Keep Out'.
Bright red square shapes with white border and white text or a white pictogram or symbol relate to 'fire equipment' signs.
An ideal example of one of these would be 'Fire Blanket'.
Green background signs with white text or symbols are 'Safe Condition' signs more commonly known as 'Fire Exit' signs.
Of all the safety signs available and obligatory these are probably the most relevant to children as they are potentially life savers.
'Fire Exit' signs have the added bonus of a glow in the dark feature which children find appealing and can be used to gain their interest and recognition.
White square or white oblong shaped signs with black text are 'Supplementary' signs and offer general information.
UK Standards It is important that safety signs are easily and instantly interpreted therefore all safety signs are regulated and standards are in place (BS54499-1:19902).
Colours, shapes, designs and characteristics of all signs are standard and whenever regulations change; all signs must be changed to conform.