Fire safety Using smoke detectors and having a planned escape route from your accommodation will greatly improve your chances if a fire breaks out.

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Plan an escape route

If you discover a fire

If possible, check that your holiday accommodation is equipped with smoke detectors and sprinkler systems when you book. If it doesn't, you might want to think about taking your own portable smoke detector.

Look for a primary and alternate escape route from your room. If a fire occurs at night, it will be easier to get out if you know where you're going.

If the worst happens and a fire breaks out:

• Close the door of the room where the fire is, if you can do so safely, and close all the doors behind you as you leave. This will help to delay the spread of fire and smoke.
• Get everyone out of the building and stay out.
• Dial the fire service from a neighbouring phone, a call box or mobile phone.

Be careful on the way out. Before opening a closed door, touch it with the back of your hand. If it feels warm, don't open it - there could be fire on the other side.

If you're cut off by fire:

• Try to remain calm. Close all doors and block any gaps with towels or sheets to stop smoke spreading into the room.
• Get close to the floor. Smoke rises, so the lower you are the easier it will be to breathe.
• Try to make your way to a window where you can attract someone's attention and get them to alert the fire service.

If your clothing catches fire, stop what you're doing, drop to the floor and roll over to smother the flames.

This article was last medically reviewed by Dr Trisha Macnair in September 2006.
First published in May 2001.