Home fire safety and escape
Keep phone, keys, and a wet towel ready for fire escape
Keep a phone and door keys in a fixed accessible place and take a wet towel when escaping.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-09
Why it matters
Missing keys can delay escape or prevent a safe return from smoke, while no phone makes reporting harder.
Wrong action
Keeping keys in different places and returning to search for a phone, valuables, or towel.
Correct action
Keep the phone and keys in a fixed accessible place. When it is safe to leave, take only a phone, keys, and wet towel that are immediately at hand; do not delay escape to collect them.
What to do
- Agree one fixed accessible place for the phone and keys.
- Keep the phone charged and learn the safe escape routes in advance.
- When leaving safely, take the three escape items only if immediately at hand; do not delay or turn back to wet a towel or find items.
If something happens
Leave by stairs and close doors only when the escape route is safe and clear of smoke. If the corridor or all stairs are blocked by smoke or fire, shelter in a safe unit behind a closed door, seal gaps, and call 999 with your trapped location. Do not use lifts or return into danger for belongings.
Sources and review
- Hong Kong Fire Services Department — Home and fire safety guidance
Last reviewed: 2026-09-09
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.