Should You Stay or Should You Go?
Find out if you live in a fireproof or non-fireproof. Fireproof does not mean the building is immune to fire. While the structural components may not catch fire, the contents will and generate life threatening heat and smpke. Generally speaking, in a fireproof building the fire and smoke will be contained to the portion of the building (apartment) where the fire has started.
Reveiw the following situations to help you decide what to do in the event of a fire in your building or apartment.
If there is a fire in your apartment:
- Get everyone out. Stay low and go.
- Use your safeest and most accessible exit.
- Close all doors as you leave.
- If using the interior stairway, alert people on your floor by knocking on their doors on your way out.
- Do not use the elevator.
- Call 911 once you reach a safe location.
If there is a fire in your non-fireproof building it is usually better (safer) to leave the building immediately and follow the directions above.
If there is a fire in your building, and you live in a fireproof building, it is usually better (safer) to:
- Stay inside rather than entering smoke-filled hallways, especially if the fire is above you.
- Keep your door closed.
- Seal the door with duct tape or wet sheets and towels.
- Seal ventilators and any other openings where smoke may enter;
- Turn off air conditioners;
- Open your windows a few inches at the top and bottom - unless flames or smoke are coming from below.
- Don't break windows - they may need to be closed later.
- Call the Fire Department with your apartment number and description of the conditions in your apartment - firefighters will be directed to your location.
Additional Apartment Safety Tips:
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