High Rise Flats are built to be fireproof. Walls ceilings and doors will hold back flames and smoke. If there is a fire elsewhere in the building you are usually safer staying in your flat unless heat or smoke is affecting you.
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Make sure everyone in your home knows about the fire and alert neighbouring flats by banging on the doors on your way out. Set off the fire alarm if there is one.
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If there's a lot of smoke, crawl along the floor where the air will be cleaner
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Get everyone out and don't delay for valuables
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Don't investigate the fire
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Before you open doors check them with the back of your hand. If they're warm don't open them as the fire is on the other side
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Don't use the lift. Go down the stairs
If you have difficulty
If you think you may have difficulty in escaping from your property in a fire, the Fire and Rescue Service can give you advice and may be able to help. Contact us on 0191 444 1500 and ask for your local Prevention and Education team or look at the ‘home safety check' section of the website and request a home visit.
