Acrid smoke and the corresponding unpleasant smell of burning are sure signs of a fire. And if these "signals" are responded to in time, many fires can be extinguished in their initial stages. Smoke in the stairwell of an apartment building is a threat to the lives of dozens of people. And prompt, correct actions by citizens will save many and prevent devastating and tragic consequences.
Acrid smoke and the corresponding unpleasant smell of burning are sure signs of a fire. And if these "signals" are responded to in time, many fires can be extinguished in their initial stages. Smoke in the stairwell of an apartment building is a threat to the lives of dozens of people. And prompt, correct actions by citizens will save many and prevent devastating and tragic consequences.
What should be done if you detect smoke in the stairwell of an apartment building? Should you try to deal with the fire on your own, or is it better to call rescuers and wait for their arrival?
The first thing to do is to report a possible fire to the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES) by calling 101 or 112, providing the exact address.
IN CASE OF LIGHT SMOKE
You can independently determine the location of the fire's origin, and by smell – determine what is burning: rubber, wiring, food. Remember: smoke and fire spread upwards on staircases. Ask neighbours for help, try to extinguish the fire together and prevent it from spreading.
If attempts to extinguish the fire are unsuccessful within a few minutes, proceed to notify all residents and evacuate them. Use staircases and, if available, fire escapes. Do not use the lift: it may fail at any moment. Protect your respiratory organs with a damp cloth: inhaling hot air filled with combustion products is dangerous. Descend the stairs, staying close to the floor; in poor visibility, rely on the walls. If smoke is entering the stairwell from an apartment, find out if there are people inside. When opening the door, remember: you will increase the oxygen supply to the apartment, and the fire will intensify.
IN CASE OF HEAVY SMOKE
If you leave your apartment and find dense, acrid smoke in the stairwell, return inside. Close the door tightly, seal all cracks with damp material. Go out onto the balcony with all family members and pets. And wait for the arrival of the dispatched rescue units.
REMEMBER! Do not give in to panic and do not let others panic! Stop neighbours who decide to leave
from the house