A fire escape plan for a small apartment

Everyone in the home should know two ways out where they exist, the meeting point, and the rule about never going back for belongings.

This article focuses on steps you can apply straight away, while pointing out what to check so you do not follow them mechanically. Adjust them to your actual circumstances, to the manufacturer's instructions and to the rules where you live or are visiting.

How to do it, step by step

1. Identify the escape routes, the stairwell and an outdoor meeting point

Identify the escape routes, the stairwell and an outdoor meeting point. Get all the tools ready before you start, look at the result after each step, and stop if anything looks unsafe or different from what you expected. Going slowly the first time usually saves the time it would take to put mistakes right later.

2. Keep corridors and exit doors clear of furniture and clutter

Keep corridors and exit doors clear of furniture and clutter. Get all the tools ready before you start, look at the result after each step, and stop if anything looks unsafe or different from what you expected. Going slowly the first time usually saves the time it would take to put mistakes right later.

3. Check alarms and fire equipment as the regulations require

Check alarms and fire equipment as the regulations require. Get all the tools ready before you start, look at the result after each step, and stop if anything looks unsafe or different from what you expected. Going slowly the first time usually saves the time it would take to put mistakes right later.

4. Practise staying low, closing doors behind you and calling the emergency services

Practise staying low, closing doors behind you and calling the emergency services. Get all the tools ready before you start, look at the result after each step, and stop if anything looks unsafe or different from what you expected. Going slowly the first time usually saves the time it would take to put mistakes right later.

5. Never use the lift, and never go back inside once you are out

Never use the lift, and never go back inside once you are out. Get all the tools ready before you start, look at the result after each step, and stop if anything looks unsafe or different from what you expected. Going slowly the first time usually saves the time it would take to put mistakes right later.

A quick checklist

• Check the actual conditions and have a fallback ready.
• Put safety and hygiene first, along with the official instructions for the device or from the local authorities.
• Try it on a small area before applying it everywhere.
• Write down what worked so it goes faster next time.

Common mistakes

The usual mistakes are skipping the checking step, using too much product, or pressing on after the conditions have changed. Do not mix chemicals, do not take on electrical or structural repairs without the expertise, and never trade safety for a few saved minutes.

In closing

Everyone in the home should know two ways out where they exist, the meeting point, and the rule about never going back for belongings. Start with the simple version, review it once you have done it, and keep it up as a habit that suits your household or your travels.