Fire grows exponentially. What starts as a small flame on a wastebasket can engulf an entire room in under five minutes. This is why early detection and fast evacuation are so critical — by the time you see heavy smoke, you may only have seconds to get out.

Once you are out, stay out. No possession is worth your life. People who re-enter a burning building account for a significant number of fire fatalities each year. Call 911, go to your meeting spot, and let the firefighters do their job — they have the training and equipment to enter safely.