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Home fire safety and escape

Keep smoke-stop doors closed

Never wedge open lobby, corridor, or stair smoke-stop doors; check they close after passing.

Critical safety rule

Last reviewed: 2026-09-09

Keep smoke-stop doors closed. Wrong action: Wedging the door open with a bin or stopper for deliveries or ventilation. Correct action: Remove obstructions and let the door self-close; report faults to management.

Why it matters

An open smoke-stop door lets smoke spread into escape routes and obstruct evacuation.

Wrong action

Wedging the door open with a bin or stopper for deliveries or ventilation.

Correct action

Remove obstructions and let the door self-close; report faults to management.

What to do

  1. Leave no object in the doorway after passing.
  2. Check the smoke-stop door self-closes completely.
  3. Report faulty hinges, closer, or frame immediately.

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

This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.

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