HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS
Emergencies in high-rise structures present unique planning and response strategies. A key to safety for those who live and work in these special structures is to practice specific high-rise fire safety and prevention behaviors.
Be Prepared For a High-rise Fire Emergency
- Never lock fire exits or doorways, halls or stairways. Never prop stairway or other fire doors open.
- Learn your buildings evacuation plans. Make sure everyone knows what to do if the fire alarm sounds.
- Be sure your building manager posts evacuation plans in high traffic areas.
- Learn the sound of your building's fire alarm and post emergency numbers near all telephones.
- Know who is responsible for maintaining the fire safety systems.
Do Not Panic In The Event Of a High-Rise Fire Emergency
- Immediately call your local emergency number. Early notification to the fire department is important.
- Give the dispatcher the information they request.
If The Door Is Warm To The Touch
- Feel the door with the back of your hand, if the door feels warm to the touch, do not attempt to open it. Stay in your apartment or office.
- Stuff the cracks around the door with towels, rags, bedding or tape and cover vents to keep smoke out.
- If there is a phone in the room where you are trapped, call the fire department again to tell them exactly where you are located.
- Wait at a window and signal for help with a flashlight or by waving a sheet.
- If possible, open the window at the top and bottom, but do not break it, you may need to close the window if smoke rushes in.
- Be patient. Rescuing all the occupants of a high-rise building can take several hours.
If The Door Is Not Warm To The Touch
- If you do attempt to open the door, stay low to the floor and slowly open it a crack.
- If there is no smoke in the hallway or stairwell, follow your building's evacuation plan.
- If you don't hear the building's fire alarm, pull the nearest fire alarm "pull station" while exiting the floor.
- If you encounter smoke or flames on your way out, immediately return to your apartment or office.
After A High-rise Fire Emergency
- Once you are out of the building, STAY OUT!
- Tell the fire department if you know of anyone trapped in the building.
- Only enter when the fire department tells you it is safe to do so.
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