Fire can occur at any time or place, and it is important to know what to do if a fire occurs in your motel, hotel or other public places, including many popular vacation attractions like restaurants, amusement parks, a petting zoo, the ballpark, the theater or a museum.

Staying in a hotel or motel

When staying in a motel or hotel, especially a high-rise structure, it is important to be familiar with survival actions. Many people have died, partially because they didn't know the following crucial tips.

Choosing accommodations

• Stay only in motels or hotels that have smoke detectors.
• If there is no smoke detector, stay on the first or second floor. Bring a portable detector and hang from the top of the door into the hallway.
• If possible, choose lodging that has a smoke detector and fire sprinkler system.

Plan your escape

• Review fire safety information located in the room or on closed circuit TV.
• Always note the location of fire exits in any building other than your home. Locate the two closest fire exits doors. Make sure they work and open properly.
• Smoke or darkness may hinder you. Count the number of doors to those exits.
• Locate the fire alarm pull station.
• Keep a flashlight and your room card or key at bedside.
• Know how to call the fire department on the telephone.

If you hear a fire alarm or suspect a fire

• Don’t delay; call the fire department.
• Feel the room door with the back of your hand. If cool, open slowly. If hot, stay in the room and call the fire department. Place wet towels or blankets in cracks of the door to keep smoke out.
• If slight smoke is present in the hallway, crawl low under smoke to exit. Activate the fire alarm and alert other guests by yelling. Take your room key with you.
• If clear, walk quickly to fire exit. Activate the fire alarm. Take your room key with you.
• If you feel you cannot exit, return to your room and open the door with your room key. Call the front desk or fire department. Place wet towels or blankets in cracks of the door to keep smoke out.
• If a fire is in your room-exit immediately, closing the door behind you and call the fire department.
• Never use the elevator in a fire emergency.

Fire safety in other public places

Fires can happen anywhere, anytime. Whenever you walk into any building other than your home, look around for fire exits. People have been known to bypass several fire exits in an emergency and head right for the door they entered because they didn't take the time to plan for an escape.

Look for fire exits when you walk into common places like the supermarket, library, theater, doctor's office or restaurant. Take special note when you walk into large buildings such as a shopping mall, sports arena, video arcade, or skating rink.

Knowing how to get out in case of fire may save your life. Please remember to make note of any exits that may provide a safe means out if needed.

The Kansas City, Mo., Fire Department would be happy to meet with your group or organization to discuss fire safety. To schedule a visit, please contact the Fire Prevention Division at (816) 784-9100.