Fire Safety in Flats and other High Rise Buildings
This document is also available in pdf format (148k)
Your building has been designed and built with fire safety in mind. The walls and doors between flats, stairs and corridors are specially designed to resist fire and stop the spread of smoke. When they are not in use these doors should be kept closed. - Don't block your escape routes.
- Don't clutter the stairs and corridors of your building. As a resident of the building, you are responsible for ensuring that common stairs are kept clear of obstruction and flammable materials.
If in doubt, or if you wish to report any obstructions or flammable materials, contact your housing association or responsible factors. Remember this is your escape route. DO NOT OBSTRUCT IT. |
SMOKE ALARMS
Make sure you have at least one working smoke alarm on each level. If battery operated, change the battery at least once a year. Some alarms are now mains powered or fitted with long-life or sealed battery units (refer to manufacturer's instructions in these cases). Check alarm regularly by pressing the test button.
WHAT TO DO IF FIRE BREAKS OUT IN YOUR FLAT
Follow your practised fire escape plan. It is essential that everyone in your home knows how to escape if a fire starts. Close the door of the room where the fire is and leave your flat immediately. Do not use balconies unless they are part of a recognised escape route.
When you leave the building, use the staircase. Do not use the lift.
Once outside call the fire brigade by dialling 999. Tell them the address and what floor level the fire is on.
Remember: GET OUT, GET THE BRIGADE OUT, STAY OUT
Once clear of the building make sure you keep a safe distance to avoid being hit by falling debris.
IF A FIRE BREAKS OUT ELSEWHERE IN YOUR BUILDING
It will normally be safe to stay in your own home. Get to a window so you are seen. However, if your property is affected by heat or smoke leave by a safe route. Remember - always call the fire brigade.
IF YOUR ESCAPE ROUTE IS BLOCKED BY FIRE
- Alert everyone and, if possible, gather everyone into one room (if possible one with a telephone).
- Don't open the door of a room if it feels warm when touched with the back of your hand.
- Once inside this "safe" room close the door and pack towels, pillows, cushions or clothing around it to keep smoke out.
- Go to a window, open it and shout to attract attention until someone calls the fire brigade. Stay at the open window.
- If you are on the first floor it may be possible to lower yourself from the windowsill to arm's length before dropping to the ground. First of all drop pillows or cushions to break your fall.
- If there are two adults one should go first to catch children. Pass them down slowly, stretching to full length before letting go. No one should ever jump.
- If you are trapped in a higher storey, lean out of the open window for fresh air until the fire brigade arrives.
DRY RISER INLETS AND LANDING VALVES
These are located in a small cupboard on each floor, usually marked "dry riser". They are designed to allow the fire service to have an immediate supply of water to the floor involved in fire. These valves should never be adjusted by you. Please report immediately to your housing association or responsible factors if you notice any problems with them or if they have been vandalised.
Remember - If the dry riser inlet is not operating correctly, valuable time could be lost when firefighting. This could cost lives.
OUTSIDE THE BUILDING
Roads and other areas are designed so that emergency vehicles can get as near as possible. Make sure access is kept free at all times.
If you have any questions relating to your safety, please contact your local fire brigade for free advice.