Fire in the building: what to do? Step-by-step guide

⏱ 2 min read

Smoke, flames. Below: what to do right away, what next, when to call 112 and what to avoid. The same instructions are in the free SurvivalZone.app and work without internet.

First, right now

1. Alert everyone at home and get out immediately. Don't take belongings.
2. Call 112 once you are safely outside.
3. If the stairwell is full of smoke, stay in your flat: close the door, seal it with wet towels, go to a window and signal to firefighters.

Then

1. In smoke, stay low, near the floor. That is where the air is cleanest.
2. Before opening a door, touch it with the back of your hand. Hot? Don't open it.
3. Close doors behind you. They slow down fire and smoke.

When to call 112

Always, if there is a fire.

What not to do

• Don't use the lift.
• Don't put water on burning oil or live electrical equipment.
• Don't go back into the building.

Frequently asked questions

Fire in the building: what should I do first?

Alert everyone at home and get out immediately. Don't take belongings. Call 112 once you are safely outside. If the stairwell is full of smoke, stay in your flat: close the door, seal it with wet towels, go to a window and signal to firefighters.

When should I call 112?

Always, if there is a fire.

Fire in the building: what should I avoid?

Don't use the lift. Don't put water on burning oil or live electrical equipment.

Related topics

• 🏢 Fire at work
• 🔌 Power out in your home
• 💨 Smell gas at home
• 🩹 Home first aid kit checklist
• 🔔 Smoke and CO alarms

Keep it on your phone

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Other scenarios

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• 🌲 Lost in the forest: how to survive
• ✈️ Diverted or cancelled flight, closed airport
• 🚨 Shooting or terrorist attack in a public place

Sources

• ERC first aid and resuscitation guidelines (European Resuscitation Council)
• Polish State Fire Service
• BBK guide "Vorsorgen für Krisen und Katastrophen" (Germany)

Official sources are checked automatically every day. Last check: 2026-11-08.

General guidance only; it does not replace the emergency services. If a life is in danger, call 112.

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