Several tall buildings sitting on the riverside at dusk

High Rise Accomodation

It's important to understand what to do in the event of a fire, whether it’s in your flat or somewhere else in the building.

Most high-rise blocks of flats have a "stay put" policy in the event of a fire. You should have been provided with this information when you moved in, however you can also find out your building's policy direct with the management company/council who own the building.

If there is a fire in your flat:

  • Follow your escape plan: get everyone out, stay out, call 999

  • Close all doors behind you as you leave to contain the fire

  • Walk down the nearest stairs or through the nearest fire exit. DO NOT use the lift

If there is a fire in another flat and your flat is unaffected by heat or smoke:

  • Close your doors and windows

  • Stay put unless the fire service advise otherwise

  • Call the fire service on 999 – NEVER assume that someone else has already made a call

If trapped in your flat by fire:

  • Get everyone to the safest room within the flat, as far away from the smoke/heat entry point as possible

  • Call the fire service on 999 – and tell us your flat and floor number

If the fire service needs to fully evacuate the building they will knock door to door.
 

Protect your home and be prepared

Protect your home

  • Fit at least one smoke alarm in your flat

  • Test your smoke alarm once a month

  • Never take the batteries out

  • Always follow the manufacturers advice

 
Be prepared
  • Keep exits clear at all times
  • Keep door and window keys near the exit
  • Prepare a grab bag that you can take if you need to be evacuated. Think about prescriptions, important documents (such as your driving licence and passport), spare keys, a mobile phone, charger and a torch
  • Get to know your neighbours. Are they young, elderly or vulnerable? They may need assistance in an emergency
Men's hands testing smoke alarm on ceiling

Do you live in high rise accomodation?

It's really important for your own safety to understand what to do in the event of a fire, whether it’s in your flat or somewhere else in the building. 

Watch our video for advice on what to do if a fire breaks out in your apartment block.

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