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In less than 30 seconds a small flame can get completely out of control and turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for a house to fill with thick black smoke and become engulfed in flames.
If there is a fire in your home or building you should leave immediately. Do not waste any time saving property.
| Category | Description | Learn More |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Emergencies | What to do if there is a fire. | Fire Emergencies Tips |
| Safety Tips for Property Owners | All about how to prevent fires in your homes | View Property Owner Tips |
| Heating Safety | The dos and don'ts of using heater properly | View Heating Safety Tips |
| Fire Pits and Open Burning Safety | Tips for how to set up and use your fire pit and/or open burning | View Open Burning Tips |
| Candle Safety | Candle safety | View safety tips when using candles |
General Fire Safety Tips
Check closed doors for heat before you open them by using the back of your hand to feel the top of the door, the doorknob, and the crack between the door and door frame before you open it. Never use the palm of your hand or fingers to test for heat - burning those areas could impair your ability to escape a fire (i.e., ladders and crawling).
Do not open a Hot Door. Escape through a window. If you cannot escape, hang a white or light-colored sheet outside the window, alerting fire fighters to your presence.
If the door feels cool, brace your shoulder against the door and open it slowly. If heat and smoke come in, slam the door and make sure it is securely closed, then use your alternate escape route such as a window. If clear, leave immediately through the door and close it behind you.
- Crawl low under any smoke to your exit - heavy smoke and poisonous gases collect first along the ceiling. The air is clearer and cooler near the floor.
- Keep your mouth covered. The toxic gases from the smoke can disorient you.
- If your clothes catch on fire, you should stop, drop, and roll - until the fire is extinguished. Running only makes the fire burn faster.
- Close doors behind you as you escape to delay the spread of the fire.
- If you are trapped in a burning building, stay near a window and close to the floor and, if possible, signal for help.
- Stay out once you are safely out. Do not reenter.
- Call 9-1-1 when you are safely out.
Open Burning
It is illegal to burn trash or debris in the city of Raleigh. The only types of fires that are permitted are fires used for heating or cooking. These allowable fires cannot exceed 3 feet in height or 2 feet in diameter. The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources prohibits the burning of leaves or yard debris where curbside collection is available. The City of Raleigh offers curbside collection of yard waste.
Smoking Materials
Smoking materials are the leading cause of fire deaths in the United States. The majority of smoking material-related fires that end in injury or death started in the living room or bedroom.
Learn more about safely handling cigarettes and other smoking materials.
Tips for Property Owners
Fire at your property is one of the most devastating events that can take place. Fortunately, many fires in apartments are preventable. The North Carolina State Fire Code has specific provisions in it that address fire safety in apartments. While the Fire Marshal's Office works diligently to inspect all common areas in apartment complexes, fire safety is the responsibility of the property management and the individual resident.