Multi-floor Building Evacuations

In the event of an emergency in a building with multiple floors​

•  Leave the area quickly.
• Follow the emergency evacuation plan for that building.
• Test doors for heat before opening.
• Do not use elevators in a building that is on fire.
• Use the nearest stairwell that is free of fire and smoke.
• Crawl under smoke.​

If you are trapped in a building​​​

•  Stay calm.
• Go to a room with outside windows and a telephone.
• Stay where rescuers can see you.
• Wave a light-colored cloth.
• Open windows — but close them if smoke rushes in.
• Stuff clothing or newspapers around door cracks.
• Help others.

To learn how to assist people with disabilities during an evacuation, visit ready.gov/disability.