High rise accommodation guidance

It is important to understand what to do in the event of a fire, whether it is 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 given this information when you moved in. However, you can also find out your building's policy from whoever owns the building.

Watch a video on YouTube on fire safety strategies for buildings.

If there is a fire in your flat

• Follow your escape plan. Get everyone out, stay out and 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 the building, but your flat is unaffected by heat or smoke

• Close your doors and windows
• Stay put unless advised by the fire service
• Call the fire service on 999. Never assume that someone else has already done so. You could save someone's life

If trapped in your flat by fire

• Get everyone to the safest room within the flat. Furthest from the smoke/heat entry point is best
• 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.

Be prepared

Protect your home with a smoke detector

• Fit at least one smoke alarm in your flat
• Test your smoke alarm once a month
• Never take the batteries out
• Always follow the manufacturer's advice

Safety measures

• Keep all exits clear in both communal corridors and your home
• Keep your door and window keys near the exit
• Prepare a grab bag that you can take if you need to be evacuated. Think about prescriptions, essential 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