Fire Safety If You Live In a High Rise

Fire Safety If You Live In a High Rise
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Fire Safety If You Live in a High Rise

Here are a few simple fire safety steps the you and your family can take in the event of a fire

Identify fire exits– When living in a high rise, take the time to identify the fire escapes in your hallway as they provide a way out during the fire. Never prop the stairway or other fire doors open.

Learn your building’s evacuation plans – Check with your building manager on where the fire evacuation plan is located. It will usually be in a high traffic area such as a bulletin board in the lobby. Make sure everyone in your unit knows what to do if the fire alarm sounds.

Create an escape plan and practice – Have a fire escape plan for your household and make sure that you practice it at least twice a year. Learn the sound of your building's fire alarm and teach the kids in your family to identify this sound as well.

Don’t Panic – If the fire alarm does sound, don’t assume that someone else has already called the fire department. Immediately call 911 and notify them of the alarm. The dispatcher will ask questions regarding the emergency. Stay calm and provide the dispatcher with the information they request.

Maintain and install smoke alarms - No matter where you live, always install smoke alarms on every level and multiple locations in your home. Test them monthly and change the batteries at least once a year.

What if your door is warm to the touch?
Before you try to leave your unit, feel the door with the back of your hand. If it feels warm to the touch, do not attempt to open it. Stay in your unit and follow some of these steps:

Stuff the cracks around the door with towel or bedding and cover vents to keep smoke out.
Call 911 again to tell them exactly where you are located, call them even if you can see the fire truck on the street below.
Wait at a window and signal for help with a flashlight or by waving a sheet. Do not break the window as you may need to close it if smoke rushes in.
Be patient. Rescuing occupants of a high-rise building may take several hours

If the Door is Not Warm to the Touch:

If you do attempt to open the door, brace your body against the door while staying low to the floor and slowly open it a crack. This allows you to check for the presence of smoke or fire in the hallway.

If there is no smoke in the hallway or stairwells follow your building's evacuation plan. If you encounter smoke or flames on your way out, immediately return to your apartment or office.

If you would like to have your home evaluated for fire safety, let Hero Fire Protection help! We are a full-service fire protection company in Hawaii dedicated in educating families about the devastating effects of home fires and other home safety issues. Contact us today to get a FREE fire safety assessment and receive a FREE emergency kit.
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