When it comes to fire safety in a residential high-rise building, such as a condominium or apartment, it’s important to know what to do to be prepared.

Preparation and planning

  • Consult building management: speak with the landlord, superintendent, or building manager to understand the specific safety features of the building.
  • Review the fire safety plan: familiarize all occupants with the emergency procedures outlined in the official building fire safety plan.
  • Create a fire escape plan: develop a home fire escape plan and practice it regularly with all members of the household.
  • Understand the risks: every fire is unique. Most fire-related fatalities are caused by smoke inhalation rather than flames.
  • Act immediately: respond quickly upon hearing a fire alarm or discovering a fire.

If a fire occurs in a unit

When there is a fire in your unit, take these steps:

  • make sure all occupants leave the unit and close doors behind them
  • activate the fire alarm on the floor and shout “fire!”
  • evacuate the building using the nearest stairway; never use the elevators
  • call 9-1-1 once safely outside
  • meet firefighters outside and provide information about the location of the fire

When to evacuate

During a fire event, the safest action is usually to leave the building immediately. If exits are blocked, staying in the apartment may be necessary. In either scenario, act quickly to protect against smoke inhalation.

Leaving the building

When the fire alarm sounds:

  • Listen for announcements: follow all instructions provided through building speaker systems.
  • Test the door: feel the door to your unit before opening it. If it is hot, use another way out. If it is cool, leave the building immediately, using the closest stairway.
  • Close doors: always close doors when exiting to contain fire and smoke.
  • Use stairs: do not use elevators.
  • Avoid smoke: if there is smoke in a stairway, use an alternative stairway.
  • Seek shelter: if no stairway is clear, return to the unit or seek shelter in another apartment.
  • Call 9-1-1 once outside: provide the exact location to emergency operators.

Staying in the building

If evacuation is not possible or it is safer to remain inside:

  • Remain in the unit: stay inside until rescued or directed to leave. Be prepared for a long wait.
  • Do not leave late: attempting to evacuate long after an alarm sounds increases the risk of encountering heavy smoke in corridors and stairways.
  • Seal the unit: prevent smoke entry by using duct tape to seal door cracks and placing wet towels at the base of the door. Seal all vents and air ducts in the same manner.
  • Call 9-1-1: provide the exact location and unit number to emergency operators.

Smoke inside the unit

If smoke enters the unit, take immediate action to stay safe and alert emergency services.

  • Call 9-1-1: provide the exact location and unit number to emergency operators.
  • Move to the balcony: if available, move to the balcony and close the door behind you.
  • Find a smoke-free room: if there is no balcony, move to the room with the least smoke. Close the door and seal all cracks with tape and wet towels.
  • Signal for help: open a window for fresh air if necessary. Hang a sheet or bright cloth from the window or balcony to alert emergency personnel of your location.
  • Stay low: keep close to the floor where the air is cleaner and cooler.
  • Follow directions: monitor the situation and follow all instructions from emergency authorities.