Apartment Fires

You're sitting in your apartment and the buzz of the smoke detector or alarm suddenly breaks the silence. Don't panic.

Call the fire department; never assume that someone else already has. Make sure you tell them your apartment number in the event that you are unable to evacuate your unit.

Be prepared to encounter heavy smoke and heat when you evacuate. If time allows, put on shoes or a heavy coat for protection. Cover your nose and mouth with a wet cloth.

Test the knob and tops of all doors before opening them. If they feel hot, heat and gases under considerable pressure may have already filled the hall. Brace yourself against the door and open it a crack. If you feel air pressure or a hot draft, or face thick smoke, close the door quickly and remain inside.

Place a rolled up towel or sheet on the floor just inside your door to prevent any fumes from coming in. With duct tape or masking tape, cover any vents from which smoke can also enter the room.

Go to your balcony or open a window to get some fresh air. From your balcony, you can also yell for help. From the balcony or window, signal your position to the fire department by waving a white sheet. If smoke is billowing on to the balcony, lie down to allow the smoke to rise above you.

Crouch low or lie on the floor if smoke enters the room, because heat and gases rise.

If the corridor is clear of smoke, shut the door behind you - to keep the fire from spreading to other units - and go to the nearest stair exit. Never use the elevator during a fire.

Again, check the handle and top of the exit door for heat. If you encounter smoke, heat, or flames, try an another exit. If all exits are unsafe, return to your apartment or go to a neighbor's apartment.

If you are able to exit, do so in a quick and orderly way. Never return to your apartment to collect valuables - your life is far more important.

Be well prepared. Ask your property manager or superintendent for a copy of the building's fire safety plan. Every building must have one; however, if no plan exists, contact your local fire department and ask that one be developed.