Apartment Building Safety Tips
Every fire is dangerous. But you can survive if you know what to do. Ask yourself;
â—¾Do you have working smoke alarms in your apartment? Your first line of defense in surviving a fire is a working smoke alarm. Your apartment should have a smoke alarm outside the sleeping rooms (and at least one alarm on each level of your unit). Report non-working smoke alarms to the Superintendent.
â—¾Do you know how to protect yourself from smoke? Remember, most people die from smoke, not fire.
â—¾Do you know how you are going to escape from your building if there is a fire? Most buildings have at least two exit stairways. Find out where these are and practice using them.
â—¾If you are unable to use stairs in an emergency, have you told your building manager that you will need help? Your apartment number can be added to the fire safety plan, so firefighters will know that you may need to be rescued.
â—¾Do you know where the fire alarms are on your floor, and how to pull them? You will have to use the fire alarm if you discover a fire on your floor.
â—¾Have you arranged a place outside the building where you will meet anyone that lives in your unit after you leave? Having a meeting place ensures everyone got out safely. Make sure everyone knows where your meeting place is and remember…Once you are out, stay out! Don't go back in for anything!
General Safety Tips
â—¾Do not use balconies for storage. This can block a means of escape.
â—¾BBQ - Most leases will not allow barbecues to be used or stored on balconies or anywhere in the building due to the potential safety hazards. Discuss this issue with your apartment manager prior to installation.
â—¾Cook safely – Cooking is one of the leading causes of fires. Never leave cooking unattended. Always keep cooking areas clean and uncluttered.
â—¾Be careful with smoking materials –Never smoke in bed. Wet the contents of ashtrays before emptying them.
â—¾Keep matches and lighters away from children - Store them up high in a locked cabinet.
â—¾Use electricity safely – Replace damaged electrical cords. Tell the Superintendent about electrical outlets or appliances that smell, smoke, or overheat. Don't overload electrical circuits.
If there is a fire in your apartment:
â—¾Pull the fire alarm if not already activated
â—¾Use the stairs. Never use an elevator when there is a fire.
â—¾If fire blocks your exit, close your apartment door and cover all cracks around doors and vents where smoke could enter, using wet towels if possible.
â—¾Call 9-1-1, even if the firefighters are already at the building, and tell them where you are. Wave a sheet or towel from an open window and shout for help so firefighters can find you.