In case of fire, know what to do in your home away from home.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) from 2006-2010, U.S. fire departments responded to an average of 3.700 structure fires per year at hotel or motel properties. These fires caused average annual losses of 12 civilian deaths, 143 civilian injuries, and $127 million in direct property damage each year.
NFPA Facts & Figures
In an average year, one of every 12 hotels or motels reported a structure fire.
Smoking materials started 10% of the fires in hotels and motels; these fires caused 79% of the deaths.
Only 8% of hotel and motel fires were intentionally set, but these accounted for 12% of the associated property damage.
Twelve percent of fires in hotels and motels began in a bedroom; these fires caused 72% of the associated civilian deaths and 31% of civilian injuries.
When sprinklers were present and operated, 91% of sprinklers in hotel or motel fires operated effectively when present.
Choose a hotel/motel that is protected by both smoke alarms and a fire sprinkler system.
When you check in, ask the front desk what the fire alarm sounds like.
When you enter your room, review the escape plan posted.
Take the time to find the exits and count the number of doors between your room and the exit.
Make sure the exits are unlocked. If they are locked, report it to management right away.
Keep your room key by your bed and take it with you if there is a fire. If the alarm sounds, leave right away, closing all doors behind you.
Use the stairs—never use elevators during a fire. If you must escape through smoke, get low and go under the smoke to your exit.
If you can’t escape shut off fans and air conditioners.
Stuff wet towels in the crack and around the doors.
Call the fire department and let them know your location.
Wait at the window and signal with a flashlight or colored cloth.