Seniors - Fire Safety for the Senior Community

Escape Readiness

  • If there's ever a fire, the most important thing to remember is: DON'T PANIC. Clear thinking and quick, smart action can get you safely through almost any emergency situation. Memorize these tips on safe evacuation, and you'll be able to keep calm enough to get yourself to safety—as well as the capacity to help your friends.

  • If the alarm goes off, don't hesitate. Follow your escape plan immediately. If you need help, yell—the person designated to help you might not be aware that there's a fire. If help doesn't arrive quickly, call your fire department or 9-1-1 and let them know you're trapped in an alarm and need assistance.

  • If you hear an alarm or see or smell smoke, but can't see a flame, get out immediately and call the fire department. Don't let your friends linger to try to identify the source!

  • When making your escape, test doors before you open them by touching the door—around the frame, as high as you can reach, and around the knob—with the back of your hand. If the area feels warm, don't touch the knob. If it's cool, open the door cautiously and be ready to slam it shut if there's smoke or flame on the other side.

  • If you encounter smoke while you're escaping, try another route. If you must escape through smoke, crawl on your hands and knees, keeping your head 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 centimetres) above the floor, where the air will be cleanest. If you are unable to do this, return to a room away from the fire and call the fire department for assistance.

  • If you cannot escape, close as many doors you can between you and the fire. Use duct tape or cloth to seal around the doors and cover all vents to keep smoke out. Call the fire department or 9-1-1—even if someone has already reported the fire—and tell them exactly where you are.