Apartment Fire Safety

If you live in an apartment or condominium you need to know how to get out quickly if a fire starts. Follow these steps to stay safe.

Don’t prop open exit or stairway doors. These are installed to slow the spread of heat and smoke if
there is a fire.
Speak to your apartment manager if you see a damaged smoke alarm, fire extinguisher or an
emergency light that has burned out.

Create an escape plan. Discuss how you will get outside. Practice your plan.
Count the number of doors there are between your apartment and the nearest fire exit. Memorize the number in case you have to find the exit in the dark.
Know where all the exit doors and stairs are on your floor.
Learn your building evacuation plan if you have one. Create and practice an escape plan for your own apartment.

In the event of a fire, stay calm. Move to the exit as you have practiced. Call the fire department once you are outside.
If your door feels warm to the touch, do not attempt to open it. Call 9-1-1 and tell the dispatcher your apartment number and that you can’t open your door.
Stuff the cracks around the door with towels, rags, bedding, or tape. Cover vents.
Wait at a window and signal for help with a flashlight or by waving a white cloth.
If your apartment door is cool to the touch, open it slowly. Stay low and check for smoke or fire in the hallway. If the hallway is safe, follow your building’s evacuation plan.
Never use an elevator to escape a fire. Always use the stairs.

Once you are outside, move away from the building. Give firefighters and fire trucks plenty of space.
Stay outside. Do not go back inside for any reason.
If you think someone is still inside, tell firefighters where you think they are.
Wait until firefighters tell you it’s safe to go back inside.