99TravelSafe.com
9 - If There is a Fire in Your Hotel
The Website For The Smart and Savvy Traveler
WHEN you register a room read the fire safety instructions posted there.
Know how to report a fire, and be sure you know where the nearest fire and alternate exits are located.
Count the doors between your room and the nearest exit; This could be a lifesaver if you have to crawl through a smoke-filled corridor.
If there is fire and your door knob is NOT hot (this would indicate a fire outside) open the door and head straight to the exit.
If there is smoke in a particular exit, do not pass through it but head for another exit.
If you cannot leave your room, fill a tub or bucket and wet some towels and sheets.
Place these towels and sheets around doors and vents to prevent smoke from entering the room.
Try to phone the operator and let him know where you are.
You may go to a window but do not jump.
Signal for help using bedsheets.
Try to get a room close to the ground floor. Ideally, a room on the ground floor or the first or second floor is the best option
Check if the hotel has an alarm and smoke detector system and ask how it works.
Check the windows to see if they work. Then, look outside and see how you can leave through the window if the emergency calls for it.
Keep the key to the room by your bed, along with a flashlight, in case you need to leave the room in an emergency.
If you discover you can't leave the room, find your way back in and protect yourself from heat and smoke till help comes. If you can leave the room, proceed with caution. Also, avoid the elevator and use only the stairs.
There may be lots of people on the stairs depending on the size of the hotel. So, ensure you hold on to the rails, so you don't fall due to the pushing. As you move towards the bottom of the stairs, try to observe the environment. If you notice more smoke at the bottom of the stairs, it's a sign that there's probably fire or denser smoke at the lower levels. If that's the case, proceed back to the roof of the building. Open the door at the roof to allow air in. Remain there until help arrives