What to do when trapped in a building during a massive fire?

KATHMANDU: A massive fire breaking out in a building can be a terrifying experience, especially when it traps people inside.

The immediate response to such an emergency can make all the difference between life and death.

Whether you’re in an office tower, apartment complex, or a large public building, understanding the right actions to take is crucial for survival.

In this article, we will go over the essential steps to follow if you find yourself trapped in a building during a massive fire.

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first thing you must do is remain as calm as possible. Panic can cloud your judgment and reduce your ability to think clearly. Breathe deeply and focus on the situation. Assess your surroundings: Is there smoke or fire nearby? Where is the closest exit? Are there people who need assistance? Having a clear understanding of your environment will help you make better decisions.

2. Alert Emergency Services

If you haven’t already been informed of the fire, dial emergency services immediately. In many countries, the number is 911 or 112. Be sure to give them the following crucial information:

• Your exact location, including the building address, floor, and room number.

• The extent of the fire (where it is, if you can safely see it).

• Whether there are any injured people with you.

• Any other hazards such as chemicals or explosions.

When you speak to the dispatcher, stay as calm as possible and listen for any instructions they may provide.

3. Close All Doors Behind You

If you are not yet in the path of the fire but are at risk of being trapped, quickly close any doors between you and the fire. Fire spreads rapidly, and closing doors can help to contain the flames and reduce the amount of smoke entering your space. A closed door can significantly slow down the spread of fire, giving you more time to make critical decisions.

4. Seal Gaps with Cloth to Prevent Smoke Infiltration

If smoke is starting to seep into your room, use any available cloth—towels, shirts, or sheets—to seal the gaps under the door. Smoke inhalation is one of the leading causes of death in fires, so it’s important to minimize exposure. Dampen the cloth with water if possible, as this can help prevent smoke from entering more effectively.

5. Locate the Nearest Exit

If you’re able to move and the fire isn’t blocking the way, find the nearest exit. This could be a staircase or an emergency exit. DO NOT use elevators during a fire. The elevator shafts can act as chimneys, quickly spreading smoke and fire to other floors.

Key Tip: Use a stairwell for escape, not an elevator. Fire can compromise the power needed to operate elevators, leaving you trapped.

If the stairwell is clear, move quickly but steadily toward the exit. Keep low to the ground to avoid inhaling smoke, which rises to the ceiling. If the stairwell is blocked or unsafe, retreat and try to find another route.

6. Signal for Help If You Cannot Escape

If you cannot escape, your next best option is to signal for help. Use a flashlight or any bright light source to signal out of windows. If you’re on a lower floor and the windows can be opened, you can use a cloth to signal (preferably in a bright color). If possible, also use your phone to send a text or call emergency numbers to provide an update on your location.

Important: Never attempt to break a window and climb out unless you’re on the ground floor. Jumping from heights can lead to serious injury.

7. Use a Wet Cloth to Cover Your Nose and Mouth

If the smoke is becoming unbearable, cover your nose and mouth with a damp cloth. The dampness can help filter out some of the smoke and toxins in the air. Breathe through your nose as much as possible to reduce the risk of inhaling the dangerous particles that smoke carries.

8. Find a Room with a Window If You’re Unable to Escape

If you cannot reach an exit and are trapped in a room, look for a window that you can open. Once you’ve found one, try to signal for help. If the fire is too close or smoke is overwhelming, retreat back to a place with minimal smoke exposure. Again, make sure to close doors behind you to prevent smoke from entering.

9. Stay Low to the Ground

In a fire, smoke rises and the air near the floor is typically clearer. If you have to move through smoke-filled areas, stay as low as possible. The lower you are, the fresher the air tends to be. Crawling through smoke-filled rooms may feel difficult, but it could significantly increase your chances of survival.

10. Wait for Professional Help

Once emergency services are on the way, stay in contact with them if possible. Follow any instructions they give you and try to remain calm. If you’ve already sealed yourself into a room, remain there and do not try to move unless instructed by a professional.

Remember that firefighters are highly trained and will have the equipment to reach you safely. They may use ladders, hoses, or specialized equipment to get you out. Trust their guidance and remain in place.

11. If You Have a Fire Extinguisher, Use It Only When Appropriate

If the fire is small and contained, and you have access to a fire extinguisher, you may attempt to put it out. However, this should only be done if you have the confidence and knowledge to do so safely. If the fire is too large or out of control, DO NOT attempt to extinguish it yourself. Your life is more important than any material possession.

12. Avoid Re-Entering the Building

If you have safely escaped the building, do not go back inside, even if you think you may have left something behind. The fire could have spread, or there may be more hazards such as structural damage, toxic smoke, or hidden flames. Wait for emergency services to assess the situation and guide you back inside if needed.

Final Thoughts

The most important thing to remember during a massive fire is that staying calm and thinking strategically can save your life. Every fire situation is unique, but following these basic guidelines can greatly improve your chances of survival. In any fire emergency, don’t hesitate to call emergency services for guidance, and always prioritize safety over material concerns.

Fires are dangerous, unpredictable, and fast-moving. The best chance for survival lies in a combination of quick action, preparedness, and keeping calm in the face of a crisis.