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One of the questions we often get from residents living on upper floors of apartment buildings is “Does the fire department have ladders long enough to get me out in case of a fire?” There is no simple answer to this question. I always start by describing a building's fire and life systems, which are there to alert residents of a fire and to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. Buildings with fire sprinklers provide even greater protection.
In most situations, a fire truck’s ladder can extend up to 100 feet. But when factoring in obstacles such as traffic or other obstructions, the ladder can reach up to the 7th floor of a typical building. Even if a ladder can reach an upper floor, evacuating via the window onto a ladder of a fire truck is not the first choice for evacuation. It is risky, and it’s usually not the safest option.
Evacuating by the stairwell is a safer option. If unable to access or use a stairwell or if trapped by smoke, the best option is to shelter in place by staying inside a unit, keeping doors and windows closed, placing towels or bedding at the base of the front door, and preparing to call 9-1-1 if smoke is entering the room or if you feel in danger. Do not stand out on balconies or decks otherwise you could be exposed to potential breaking glass from above or from smoke and fire from below. It’s safer to wait inside an apartment unit. If a fire is inside the unit, find shelter in a neighbor's apartment on the same floor or wait in the stairwell landing if not able to use the stairs.
During a residential building fire, firefighters will work quickly to extinguish the fire and evacuate residents to a safer location. Evacuating down the stairs or sheltering in place are better options than being escorted out of a high window on a metal ladder.
What to do when the fire alarm sounds handout
Learn more about apartment evacuation and sheltering in place by watching this video by the Seattle Fire Department.
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