Now that vacation season is here, you may be planning to spend some time at one of Florida’s many hotels. Even though you have researched reviews and prices so you can find a place that meets your needs, you should not forget about fire safety. According to the National Fire Protection Association, each year, one percent of all structure fires occur in motels and hotels. When you take into consideration that 120 people suffer injuries and nine people die from these events, you may find yourself wondering if you know what to do in case a fire occurs in your hotel.
Here is a brief overview on how you can protect yourself during a fire hotel incident.
Know the location of all exits
One reason people tend to suffer injuries in hotel fires is they do not know where the exits are. Before you complete the check-in process, you should ask the staff to show you the location of all entrances, stairwells, elevators and fire exits in the building. These areas should be free from obstructions and easy to access.
Review your hotel’s fire safety plans
Hotels have a duty to ensure their properties are reasonably safe from fire hazards. They should have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every floor and outside of every few guest rooms. They should also have functional fire sprinkler systems in place on every floor. Each hotel is different, but many of them have additional processes and equipment in place to protect their guests when fires occur. You should learn what they are.
Remember to stay calm
It is important for you to stay calm and not panic if a fire occurs. You need a clear head to help you make it out of the property safely. If you see smoke, you should drop to your hands and knees to reduce the amount of smoke you inhale. You should test surfaces lightly with the back of your hand to know where you can and cannot go. If you have your cellphone, call the authorities once you are in a safe area and alert them to your location in the property if you cannot find your way to a fire escape or exit the building safely.
Fire safety is a very important issue. Even if your hotel does not have a record of fire accidents, knowing what to do can reduce your risk of injury and save your life.