Respond to a disaster

During a fire

Assess the fire and smoke before evacuating or calling for help.

At homeOut and aboutEvacuating

This guide includes South Korean official guidance. Emergency numbers, shelters and procedures differ by country. Follow local authorities and emergency services.

First, check this

Alert others and call emergency services. First check whether you can leave safely.

If the fire is in your home

  • If you can leave safely, evacuate with your household and close the door behind you. Use stairs, never an elevator. Stay low if there is smoke.

If the fire is elsewhere

  • In an apartment, if fire and smoke are not entering your home, stay inside, close the windows, call emergency services and follow announcements.
  • If fire or smoke enters, check the corridor and stairs. Leave by stairs only if they are clear and safe. Do not open a hot door or one with smoke coming through.

If you cannot evacuate

  • Use a designated refuge or escape facility if available. Otherwise move away from flames and smoke, close the door, seal gaps, and tell emergency services your location. Do not return after evacuating.

Source: old.safekorea.go.kr

Sources may be in Korean or English. Always follow current local guidance.

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