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.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-09

Home fire safety and escape
Never wedge open lobby, corridor, or stair smoke-stop doors; check they close after passing.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-09

An open smoke-stop door lets smoke spread into escape routes and obstruct evacuation.
Wedging the door open with a bin or stopper for deliveries or ventilation.
Remove obstructions and let the door self-close; report faults to management.
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.
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.