Your Safety is TOP PRIORITY!
>>> Stay Calm...
Panic can cloud your judgment. Take a deep breath and try to remain calm.
>>> Alert Others...
If you suspect a fire or hear a fire alarm, never ignore it.
Your first reaction should be to:
- Grab your keys (if available).
- Alert the people around you.
- Go immediately.
>>> Stay Low...
If there’s smoke or fumes, stay low to avoid inhaling toxic gases.
>>> Check the Door...
- Feel the doorknob or higher on the door with the back of your hand. If it feels hot, fire may be on the other side. Keep the door shut.
- Stuff clothing, towels, or newspapers in the door’s cracks to keep smoke out.
- Even if the door is cool, open it slowly. Stand low and to one side in case smoke seeps around it.
>>> Exit Safely...
- If the hallway is clear of smoke, walk calmly to the nearest fire exit and use the stairs (NEVER use elevators).
- Close doors behind you to confine the fire as much as possible.
- If the alarm isn’t sounding, pull the fire alarm on your way out or yell “fire” to alert others.
>>> Outdoor Safety...
- Move quickly to an open area away from buildings, trees, power lines, and roadways.
- If your building has a designated assembly area, head there.
>>> Trapped Inside a Room...
- Close as many doors as possible between you and the fire.
- Seal cracks around the door to prevent smoke from entering.
- If you have a working phone, call emergency services and provide your building’s name, address, room number, and that you’re trapped.
- Signal from a window if necessary (but avoid breaking the glass unless absolutely necessary).
>>> Upper Floors of a Tall Building...
- Put a wet cloth under closed doors to prevent smoke spread.
- Call emergency services and provide details.
- Hang a brightly colored cloth or bed sheet out the window to signal your location.
- Use a flashlight to signal at night if available.