In a densely populated city like Manhattan, fires spread quickly and become extremely intense quickly causing death, serious health complications from smoke and massive property damage. However, knowing what to do in the event of a fire can save your life. Read on to find out what to do if there is a fire in your apartment building. If you or someone you know has been a victim of an apartment fire and suffered injuries, contact an experienced Fire injury Lawyer as soon as possible.
Understand basic fire safety techniques.
The most important thing in a fire is protecting yourself, your loved ones and your pets. Before an emergency happens, remember the following critical things:
- Never leave your apartment without your keys or phone.
- Do not try to escape through a route when the door handle is hot to the touch- this means fire is behind it.
- Locate your nearest fire emergency exits in your building. Not just the one on your floor-know them inside and out. This will be especially helpful if you need to escape your floor and navigate outside in an emergency.
- Remain low to the ground if there is smoke in the building while you’re escaping as it will make it easier to breathe.
- Always use stairs in a fire emergency, avoid the elevators at all costs.
Contact 911
Call 911 at the first sign of smoke or fire. The quicker you contact them and let them know about the situation, the quicker they can get to you and potentially save your life.
Block the smoke from entering your apartment.
Be sure to put wet towels, rags, bedding or tape under your doors. And cover any vents in your apartment to help limit smoke from coming in. No matter what, don’t break a window and don’t try to jump out of your apartment. Wait for first responders to arrive, suggests Apartment Guide.
Help firefighters save your pets and loved ones.
Putting a simple sticker on your entry doors and windows can let firefighters know who to rescue upon entering your apartment. This can notify first responders of pets and children inside who need help. Be sure to buy some with reflective coatings so they are easily spotted through debris and smoke.
Experiencing an apartment fire is traumatizing to say the least. With these tips in mind, you can potentially save your own life. However, if you experience damage or harm from an apartment fire, you need someone on your side to fight for you. There are harrowing and potentially long-term conditions caused by smoke inhalation and fire exposure, which is why you need a professional fire injury lawyer in your corner.
Contacting a Fire Injury Lawyer
Fires have the potential to cause devastating and life-threatening injuries within seconds. If you or someone you know has suffered a fire injury, let us help you fight for your rights and hold those responsible accountable for your trauma and injuries. Contact our NYC Fire Injury Attorneys today for a free consultation or call 212-779-7070.
