Tips on what to do if you’re hotel catches fire

Fire safety starts the moment you enter your motel or hotel room. Here are some key precautions to take:

Know your escape routes and fire exits. Become familiar enough with the routes that you could locate an escape stairwell in the dark.

Locate your room’s nearest fire alarms and fire extinguisher locations.

Check the LED light on your smoke detector to be sure it is working.

If you suspect a fire, call the hotel operator immediately.

Use the backside of your hand to check whether the door is hot. (Using the palm or fingers could lead to injury)

If the door is not warm, open it slowly. Be ready to slam it if a cloud of smoke rolls in.

If the hallway is clear, make your way to the fire exit. Never use an elevator.

If you cannot leave your room, call the hotel operator or fire department immediately.

Fill the bathtub with water to wet sheets and towels.

If the door to your hotel is hot, use ice buckets to douse and cool it. Place wet towels under the door to keep smoke out. Hang a sheet from the window to alert rescuers where you are.

Sources: Times research, travel safety expert Kevin Coffey ( www.kevincoffee.com)