Walk the route before you need it
Count the doors between your apartment and the exit stair so you can orient yourself in smoke. Find a second stair when the building has one. Make sure every household member can unlock and open the apartment door and windows.
Choose an outside meeting place that does not block firefighters. Practice reaching it without using the elevator.
- Unit exit
- Primary stair
- Alternate stair
- Outside meeting point
- 911 call location
When the alarm sounds
Leave promptly when the route is safe. Close the apartment door behind you to slow smoke and heat. Pull the building alarm on the way out if needed and use the stairs. Once outside, stay outside and tell firefighters if someone may be trapped.
If heat or smoke blocks your path, stay in the apartment, close the door, call 911, and give your exact location. Follow dispatcher instructions. Signal at a window only as advised and avoid opening it in a way that draws smoke inside.
Plan for real people
Include children, older adults, people with disabilities, night-shift sleepers, guests, and pets. Talk with the building manager and trusted neighbors about assistance needs before an emergency. An accessible plan should not depend on an elevator that may be unavailable.
Sources and further help
This is general information. Follow instructions from firefighters, medical professionals, utilities, building officials, and your insurer.