- Your safety
- Home safety
- Fire safety in the home
- High rise homes, flats ...
Flats are designed to help contain fire and smoke where it starts. This protection relies on doors, walls and floors working properly, so it is important to keep fire doors closed and never prop them open. You should not make any changes to the layout or structure of your flat without permission from the building owner, as this could affect fire safety and the way fire and smoke spread.
Get out immediately with everyone else who was inside your flat.
Do not stop to collect belongings or investigate the fire.
Close the door behind you to help contain the fire.
Stay low if there is smoke.
Warn others in your building by activating the fire alarm.
Call 999 once you are in a safe place.
Remember: Get out, stay out and call 999.
Go to the safest room with a window and close the door.
Block gaps at the bottom of the door with bedding or towels.
Open the window and dial 999. If you don’t have a phone, shout for help.
Wait for the fire and rescue service – do not attempt to jump or climb from height by yourself, or you risk serious injury or death.
Follow your building’s evacuation plan: Most flats and apartment buildings are designed to contain a fire for a certain period of time, which may mean it is safer to stay in your flat. However, there is no one‑size‑fits‑all approach, so it is essential that you understand your building’s fire procedures. You should receive a yearly reminder of your building’s plan – if you are unsure, contact your landlord or building management team.
What to do if you cannot escape your building: If fire or smoke is blocking your escape in the stairwell or corridors, return to your flat, or a neighbour’s flat if it is safer to do so, and wait for rescue. Call 999 and tell the operator your flat number and how many people are with you – follow their advice and remain calm. Stay by an open window if possible and block the bottom of the door to prevent smoke entering.
Make sure smoke alarms inside your flat are working and test them weekly.
Change batteries when needed or report any faults or concerns to your landlord.
Plan, practise and understand your escape route and building evacuation procedure.
Never tamper with fire safety equipment such as dry risers or sprinklers.
Report damaged or faulty fire safety equipment immediately.
Keep shared areas clear:
Do not store furniture, rubbish or belongings in corridors, stairways or communal areas.
Keep access routes clear for emergency services, including parking only in designated spaces.
Follow our home fire safety advice and the information provided by your landlord or building management team.
Last updated: Wednesday, 20 May 2026