Emergency Cases
If You Cannot Escape
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Gather everyone in one room and take a mobile phone if possible.
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Use clothes, pillows, or towels to block gaps around the door to prevent smoke.
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Open the window and call for help or have someone call 999 for fire service.
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Stay near an open window to get fresh air and be visible to firefighters.
Escape Through the Window
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Consider this option only if there is no other escape route and you are on the first floor.
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Never jump unless it is safe.
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If possible, place pillows or blankets under the window and lower yourself carefully.
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If there are two adults, one goes down first to catch the children as they are lowered.
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Pass them slowly while extending your arms fully before releasing them.
If Clothes Catch Fire
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If your clothes catch fire, stop immediately, lie on the ground, and roll until the fire is extinguished.
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If another person's clothes catch fire, cover the fire with a blanket, rug, or thick coat.
Escape from High-Rise Building Fire
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Most high-rise residential buildings are designed with a "stay in place" policy, meaning apartments are built to prevent fire spread between units. As a result, fire rarely spreads from one apartment to another.
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If there is a fire in the building but not in your apartment, stay inside and keep your front door closed unless:
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You are affected by heat, smoke, or fire.
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Fire services or police ask you to evacuate.
Trapped by Fire
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It is unusual to be trapped by fire. However, if you find yourself in this situation:
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Move to a "safe room" with a window and phone, ensuring everyone is together.
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Call firefighting and rescue services and use sheets or towels to seal gaps under the door to prevent smoke entry.
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Open a window for fresh air and if safe, wave sheets to signal for help.
Related Topics
Most residential fire incidents occur by accident. Learn how to prevent them and ensure the safety of all family members.