Town of Morrisville, NC
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Fire Escape
Nobody expects a fire, but it's very important to have a plan just in case. Fire can happen anywhere, in your home, apartment, or place of business. In case of a fire, what you don't know can hurt you. Keep in mind, fires don't always happen to someone else. Escape plans will differ for each type of building. It's up to you to plan the proper escape from your particular building.
Exit Tips
- Make a pre-planned fire escape plan. Have a family meeting to discuss what to do if there is a fire. Practice your plan
- Decide on a meeting place outside of the building. By deciding on a meeting place outside and away from the building, you will know if everyone has gotten out safely
- Use approved window gates. Do not use a padlock, which will prevent your escape from a fire
- When a fire occurs and you begin to evacuate the building, warn other occupants along the way, and pull the fire alarm (if available)
- Walk quickly, don't panic
- Feel the door on your way out with the back of your hand. If the door is hot, do not open. Close the door behind you to slow the spread of fire
- Use the stairs - don't use the elevator. It may stop and trap you
- Try to place one hand in contact with the wall to prevent you from getting lost
- Stay low and go. If there's smoke, escape by staying very low to the ground where air is cooler
- Open a window if trapped. Open the window at the top to let out heat and smoke, and at the bottom to breathe. If you cannot get out, wave a sheet out the window
- Meet at your pre-planned meeting place outside of the building. Take roll call, and report missing persons to first responders along with their likely location
- Send the alarm. Dial 9-1-1 to report a fire. Use the local fire alarm box (if available)
- NEVER go back into a burning building for anything. Your life is your most valuable possession
- If your clothes catch on fire, stop, drop, and roll. If someone else’s clothes catch on fire, have them drop and smother the flames with a coat or blanket