Do this first
- 1Get out now. Do not stop for belongings.
- 2Stay low under smoke. Feel doors with the back of your hand first — if hot, use another way out.
- 3Close doors behind you as you leave to slow the fire.
- 4Once outside, call 911 from outside.
- 5Go to your meeting spot and count everyone.
- 6Can't get out? Close the door, seal gaps with wet towels, signal from a window, and call 911.
What to grab
- Only what is already in your hand and does not slow you down.
- Help children, older adults, and pets out only if you can do it safely.
- Nothing else is worth your life.
Where to go
- Your outdoor meeting spot — the same place every time, a safe distance from the building.
- Stay outside until firefighters say it is safe.
What NOT to do
- Don't go back inside for anything — people, pets, or belongings. Tell the firefighters.
- Don't use elevators.
- Don't open a door that is hot to the touch.
- Don't hide in a closet or under a bed.
- Don't try to fight a fire that is spreading.
- If clothes catch fire: stop, drop, and roll.
All emergenciesGeneral guidance only. In a life-threatening emergency, call 911 and follow instructions from local officials.