It is always dangerous to remain in a burning building. Fires often spread rapidly and cut off escape and are likely to generate poisonous gases.

If you are trapped inside the burning building, do not open a door that feels warm. Superheated air might quickly kill you. Try to get out some other way.

Stuff clothes in the cracks under and around the door to keep out smoke and gases. Open the window, break it if necessary and shout for assistance.

When forced to remain in a smoke-filled building, remember that the air is usually better near the floor. So, try to crawl on the floor. If you must make a dash through smoke or flame, hold your breath.

If there is dense smoke but no flame, crawl and if possible, get a wet towel and wrap it around yourself. Cover your nose and mouth with damp cloth.

If there is a panic-rush for the main exit, keep out of the crowd and try to find some other means of escape. Above all, keep calm!

A temporary refuge may be secured behind any door. Even a thin, wooden door will temporarily stop smoke and hot gases and may not burn through for several minutes.

If you are cut off upstairs, make a rope out of bed clothes or clothing. You can use porch and garage roofs or trees to get out to the ground.