If a fire is blocking your only escape route, what should you do?

When a fire obstructs your only escape route, seeking an alternate exit or creating a secure space is the most prudent action. This approach focuses on your safety and minimizes exposure to danger. By looking for other exits, you can potentially find a route to safety without confronting the fire directly. If no exits are available, creating a secure space—such as closing doors, sealing gaps with clothing or other materials, and signaling for help—can enhance your safety until help arrives. This method reduces the risk of injury and increases your chances of survival.

Attempting to extinguish the fire yourself can be extremely dangerous, especially if you are not trained or if the fire is too large. Relying solely on waiting for help can delay your escape and put you at further risk, as assistance may take time to arrive. Breaking a window might seem like a viable escape plan, but it can expose you to additional hazards, such as smoke, flames, or sharp glass, which could lead to injury. Thus, seeking an alternate route or creating a secure space is the recommended course of action in this situation.