• Enclosure of 2hr fire resistance for stair cases and lift wells.

• Wide staircases and lobbies to permit orderly evacuation in emergency.   Pressurisation of these areas will keep them free of smoke.

• Critical areas such as refuge areas to be protected by fire proof doors.

• Fire-lift for exclusive use of fire fighters.

• Electrical wiring in metal conduits.

• Emergency switches at ground floor for disconnecting power, floor-wise.

• In central air conditioning (A/C) system, provide automatic fire dampers (in the common duct) for each floor or occupancy.

• Individual A/C system for each occupancy or for each floor is preferred to central A/C system.

• Openings in the cable passageways (from duct to floors) to be closed.

• Alternate power supply for staircase & corridor lighting circuits, fire lifts and stand-by fire pump.

• Fire detection & alarm system, hose reels, wet risers, yard hydrant, automatic sprinklers and water reservoir as per National Building Code.

Occupation Stage

• Minimise combustible materials for furnishing.   Use fire retardant material for false ceiling, partititons and upholstry.

• Develop a simple, written fire safegy plan which should include precautions for fire prevention at occupant's level, fire control by the building maintenance/security team and the emergency plan covering evacuation procedure.

• All occupants should know clearly how to identify/raise fire alarm, call fire brigade, tackle fire and evacuate safely.

Maintenance Stage

• Ensure good maintenance of fire appliances.

• Check periodically availability of dedicated water for fire fighting.

• Undertake fire drills and mock exercise for evacuation.

• Have stringent controls against over loading of electrical circuits, accumulation of chemicals and flammables, and storage of materials in the staircases, lobbies and fire escape stairways.

During Fire Emergency

• Keep the doors and windows shut to prevent ingress of heat and smoke.

• Evacuate without panic, but quickly. Do not waste time in collecting things.

• Do not use lifts as they may malfunction.

• If fire is in an upper floor, proceed to lower floors and eventually to outside the building.   If fire is in a lower floor, use judgment and decide the evacuation direction. Try to reach refuge area, if provided in the building.

• Remember that floor level will be free from smoke for longer time.