In this article
Prepare itineraries and assistance needs with the building manager, then apply instructions adapted to the situation.
The plan of the building is the reference
A residential building has constraints of access, stairs and own communication. Ask the person in charge for fire instructions, exits and assistance. Do not infer a security strategy from the number of floors alone.
At the alarm or in front of a fire index, act according to the instructions. If you notice the fire, alert and call 911 from a safe location. Do not try to confirm its magnitude by going through the floors.
If the exit path can be taken
Exit quickly and calmly towards the indicated exit, closing the doors behind you if possible. Use the stairs provided and continue to the outside. Don't stop to take away goods.
Do not use an ordinary elevator in case of fire. Do not always climb to the roof: it may be inaccessible or may not offer an exit. Indications from emergency services take precedence.
If the door is hot or the passage impracticable
Do not open a hot door. If you can’t get out safely, keep it closed and call 911 to indicate your exact presence, floor and help needs.
Block the smoke entrance at the bottom of the door with a towel if possible. In the instructions of the City of Quebec for a dwelling where it is not possible to go out, the windows and patio doors remain closed and the presence is reported to the stakeholders. Follow the instructions received for your situation.
Don’t go through a smoky stairwell based on a technique described online. A damp cloth or a low position does not remove toxic gases. Report the obstacle to rescue.
Predicting the need for assistance
If you can’t use the stairs on your own, have the aid arrangements prepared before an incident with the building manager. The waiting areas, equipment and people responsible for helping must be identified in the frame adapted to the building.
In real life, indicate your location and limitations to 911. Don’t ask untrained people to improvise dangerous transportation on the stairs. Children must also have simple markers and an adult planned to help them.
After the exit
Walk away to the gathering point without blocking access and report missing people. Do not return to the building until authorized by the fire department.
Take advantage of an announced exercise to check routes and contacts. A move, a temporary limitation or a change of health must lead to an update of the terms of assistance.
Sources and Updates
Documentary verification: November 3, 2026.