Another Tragic High-Rise Fire Reminds Us of the Importance of “Occupant” Fire Safety Preparedness
A recent fatal high-rise fire in Scarborough serves as a tragic reminder of the critical importance of fire safety preparedness in residential buildings. Fire safety is not solely the responsibility of building management—it's a shared duty among building staff, residents, and management alike. In high-rise buildings, every individual plays a role in ensuring safety and preparedness.
At National Life Safety Group, we believe in a comprehensive, team-based approach to fire safety. Here are some key responsibilities for both building occupants and management to ensure a safer living environment:
Resident Fire Safety Responsibilities:
Ensure working smoke alarms: Smoke alarms are your first line of defense. Check them regularly, and make sure everyone in your household knows what to do when they sound.
Avoid unattended cooking: Cooking is one of the leading causes of home fires. Never leave the stove or oven unattended while cooking.
Keep exit paths clear: Make sure there’s nothing blocking your path to the suite door, ensuring you can evacuate quickly if necessary.
Check your suite door regularly: Ensure it closes and latches properly. This is critical in preventing the spread of smoke and fire. If your door does not close properly, notify building management for repairs immediately.
Be mindful of oxygen use: If oxygen is used in your home, it introduces specific fire risks. Understand these risks and take extra precautions, including avoiding open flames.
Charge electronic devices safely: Never charge electronics near your exit, as it can block your escape in case of fire.
Dispose of smoking materials safely: Always use proper containers for cigarette butts and ashes, and empty them regularly to avoid fire hazards.
Know how to react when the fire alarm sounds: Be familiar with your building’s fire alarm procedures and never delay your decision to evacuate or defend in place.
Prepare for ‘Defend in Place’ scenarios: If evacuation is not possible, be prepared to defend in place. This includes having supplies like duct tape, towels, and water on hand to block smoke from entering your suite.
There are other roles and responsbilities and residents should always seek these out, commonly found in the building’s approved fire safety plan for the building.
Building Management's Role:
Building management plays a critical role in ensuring the safety of all residents through the implementation of regular fire safety maintenance, drills, and communication. Fire safety plans should be up-to-date, tested frequently, and easily accessible to both staff and residents. Communication is key—residents should be informed of any updates to the fire safety procedures and reminded of their responsibilities on an ongoing basis.
In Closing
Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic incident in Scarborough, Ontario. This tragedy highlights how crucial it is to prioritize fire safety every day. If you live in a high-rise building, take a proactive step today—ask your building management to see the approved, up-to-date fire safety plan. Knowing the procedures could save lives.
National Life Safety Group
A trusted advisory firm, focusing on both “facility” and “people” based risk management, and the successful integration of fire, safety, security & emergency management. www.nationallifesafetygroup.ca