The safety of our tenants and staff is the highest priority of the Housing Corporation. One of the most serious threats to safety in any building is fire. Tenants should observe the following fire safety guidelines.
Prevent Fires from Starting!
Handle and store flammable materials properly. Always keep flammable materials away from fuel-burning appliances. Be attentive in the kitchen and never leave a stove unattended. Take care when smoking and disposing of smoking materials and contents of ash trays. Do not store flammable materials like gasoline or other fuels inside your unit.
Never Tamper with Smoke Detectors
All Sudbury Housing units are equipped with smoke detectors, which are checked annually to ensure they are operating properly. Smoke detectors save lives - never remove or disable a smoke detector in your unit. Doing so is not only risking your life - it's also a crime!
If you are experiencing any problems with your smoke detector, let us know and we'll repair or replace it immediately.
Plan Your Escape Route Right Now!
Plan an escape route from your unit, and have everyone practice that escape route. Plan an alternate route in case your first choice is blocked. Never take an elevator during a fire! Agree on a meeting place outdoors, so you know where everyone is.
If You Are Caught in a Fire
Stay low! Smoke rises, so the air will be cleared close to the floor. Get on your hands and knees and crawl to an exit. Cover your nose and mouth. Keep a flashlight handy. Close all doors to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. Close your unit door before opening a window. Don't call the fire department until you have escaped from your unit.
Tell the Fire Department
Your name and full address. Let them know if anybody is trapped inside your building. Do not hang up until you are told to do so.
Should I Fight the Fire Myself?
Only if it is a very small fire, and only after you have phoned the fire department. Remember, have a clear exit and make sure you are confident about your escape plan. Don't fight a fire unless you have the proper equipment or extinguisher.
If In Doubt... Get Out!
In Case of Fire
If there is a fire, leave your unit immediately and close the door behind you.
If you live in an apartment building, immediately set off the fire alarm using an alarm pull station.
Call 911 and give them full details of the fire. Wait outside near the front of your building (but away from any dangerous conditions) and wait for instructions.
Never leave the fire scene without telling staff or the fire department - leave a telephone number where you can be reached.
Never go back into a building until OK'd by the fire department.
Return to your unit after instructed to do so by the fire department.
If you need assistance, please first speak with GSHC staff.