Stay Or Go?
Deciding whether it is best to leave the building, or stay...when
there's a fire
Getting out of a burning building is what people's instincts tell them they
should do. But it's not always the best course of action. Many times, in a
multi-unit building, it's better to stay where you are than risk running into
smoke or fire as you leave. If you decide you are going to leave, the
decision must be made quickly. The longer you wait, the better the chance
the fire or smoke will have spread to stairways and corridors, blocking escape
routes. If the fire is in your unit, you and anyone else inside will have
to get out. Close all doors behind you and pull the fire alarm as you head
for the closest stairway. DO NOT USE THE ELEVATOR!
If you hear the alarm
and decide to go
- Check your apartment door. If it is hot, or if smoke is coming in
around the edges, do not open the door. If there is no heat or smoke, open
the door a crack and look to see if the corridor is clear. If it is, take
your keys, lock your door and go to the nearest stairway.
- Open the door to the stairway carefully. If there's smoke present,
don't enter. Close the door and try another stairway. If they are
all blocked, return to your unit and protect yourself from smoke.
- If you are descending (never try to go to the roof...smoke will rise to
the top of a stairway) and encounter smoke, leave the stairway as quickly as
you can. Remember to stay as low as you can. The air is cleaner
closer to the floor.
If you remain in your apartment
- Keep smoke from entering your unit. Duct tape is very good for this
purpose. Seal the cracks around the door. Wet towels will also
work. You can seal ducts or vents the same way.
- Call the fire department and tell them what unit you are in. If
possible, move to the balcony. If you don't have a balcony, move to the
room with the least amount of smoke in it.
- Open a window to provide you with fresh air. Hang a sheet or blanket
from the window to show rescuers where you are
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