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Protect What Matters Most: Fire Safety Tips
If you live in a block of flats, it’s important to understand what to do in the event of a fire, whether it is inside your flat or somewhere else in the building. Fire safety is about preparation, and having a reliable escape option can make all the difference. Here are practical tips to help you stay safe:
Your Building's Evacuation Plan
Every building should have a specific evacuation plan. Make sure you:
- Know your building’s evacuation plan and practise it regularly.
- Contact your building’s owner, landlord, managing agent, or warden if you are unsure of the plan.
There are two common types of evacuation plans:
- Stay Put: Remain in your flat unless affected by fire or smoke.
- Full Evacuation: Leave the building when the alarm sounds.
Fire or Smoke Inside Your Flat but Your Escape Route Is Not Clear?
If you cannot use your planned escape route safely, it may be better to find a ‘safe room’ and wait for rescue:
- Choose a room far from the fire or smoke, with a window if possible.
- Seal gaps under the door with bedding, cushions, or towels.
- Open a window for fresh air and shout “HELP, FIRE.”
- Call 999 and describe your location and the quickest way for firefighters to reach you.
What to Do If There Is a Fire Inside Your Flat
- Plan and practise escaping from your flat.
- Use your normal way out but avoid the lift if there is a fire.
- Keep door keys where everyone can find them easily.
- Move quickly but safely; do not stop to investigate or pick up valuables.
- Close doors behind you to slow the spread of fire and smoke.
- Get out, stay out, and call 999 as soon as you are safe.
Why Stay Put?
- Staying in your flat reduces the risk of exposure to smoke in corridors.
- Firefighters can work more efficiently without overcrowding on stairways.
- Evacuate only if your flat is affected by fire or smoke, or if instructed by the fire service.
If Your Building Requires Full Evacuation:
- Leave your flat when the alarm sounds, closing doors behind you.
- Move quickly but safely and do not stop for valuables.
- Use the stairs, never the lift.
- Call 999 as soon as you are safe.
What to Do If There Is a Fire Somewhere Else in the Building
Most purpose-built blocks of flats are designed to contain fires within a flat for up to 60 minutes. Follow your building’s policy:
If Your Building Has a ‘Stay Put’ Policy:
- Close your windows and doors.
- Call 999; do not assume someone else has called.
- Stay tuned to local news or updates from the fire service.
- Stay put unless advised otherwise by the fire service.
Think Ahead and Be Prepared
- Identify a potential safe room with a window and a phone.
- Keep a phone and torch in your bedroom at night.
- Ensure your escape plan is well-practised and understood by everyone in your household.
Being prepared and understanding these fire safety measures can save lives. Contact us to learn more about how our secured escape rope systems provide an additional layer of safety for your building.
