Fall from burning building or structure in uncontrolled fire digital illustration

Fall from burning building or structure in uncontrolled fire Save


ICD-10 code: X00.3

Chapter: External causes of morbidity and mortality

What to Do If You Fall from a Burning Building or Structure in an Uncontrolled Fire

Being in a burning building or structure can be a terrifying experience. The heat, smoke, and flames can quickly make it difficult to breathe and see, and you may find yourself in a situation where you need to escape by jumping or falling from a window or balcony. Here are some tips on what to do if you find yourself in this situation:

  1. Stay Calm: Panic can cloud your judgment and make it harder to think clearly. Take deep breaths and try to stay focused on your escape plan.
  2. Assess Your Options: Look for the safest way to escape. If possible, use the stairs or elevator. If not, look for a window or balcony that you can safely jump or fall from.
  3. Protect Yourself: If you need to jump or fall, try to land on something that will cushion your fall, like bushes or soft ground. If you can't find anything soft to land on, try to aim for a flat surface rather than a slope or uneven ground.
  4. Stay Low: Before jumping or falling, get as low to the ground as possible. This will help reduce the distance you fall and may help you avoid inhaling too much smoke or heat.
  5. Signal for Help: If you can't escape, try to signal for help by waving a brightly colored object or flashlight out the window.

Remember, falling from a burning building or structure should always be a last resort. If possible, try to find a safe place to wait for help, like a room with a closed door and a wet towel or cloth stuffed under the door to help keep smoke out. If you're trapped on a higher floor, try to attract attention by making noise or shining a light out the window.

Hopefully, you'll never find yourself in a situation where you need to fall from a burning building or structure. But if you do, staying calm and using these tips can help increase your chances of surviving.