Would You Know How To Survive A Hostel Fire?

February 13th, 2007 by Pia Taylor

A week ago, a hostel in Chile caught alight, and ten backpackers died in the blaze. A horrible story with a very unhappy ending.

Would you know what to do if a fire started in your hostel? Or would you panic?

I’m not sure I would have the faintest clue what to do and was very happy to hear that Flarebrands (creators of the Flaresafe – portable smoke detector/torch) have put together a free guide on how to survive (and prepare for) a fire.

Some handy tips mentioned in the fire safety guide:

  • when checking in at a hostel, ask at the reception about fire safety measures
  • make a note of exit points when you arrive (smoke is likely to obscure exit signs)
  • remember that smoke is often more dangerous than the fire itself – cover your nose and mouth
  • if there is a fire – stay low: smoke and heat rises, oxygen sinks

These may sound paranoid, or overkill, but building a quick check into your routine takes so little effort, and could save you from what is a horrid horrid death.

Take a moment to read through the Fire Safety Guide – it’s worth the effort.

Related stories:
‘Backpackers Killed in Chile Hostel Fire’ (Backpackers.com)
‘Australian dies in Chile hostel fire’ (The Age)
‘Aussie killed in hostel inferno’ (Sydney Morning Herald)
‘Fire at hostel’ (Newsshopper.co.uk)
‘Melbourne Hostel Blaze Kills Backpacker Couple’ (Backpackers.com)
‘Flaresafe: Torch, Smoke Detector And More’ (Backpackers.com)

Useful resources for backpackers:
Flarebrands website – creators of the Flaresafe smoke detector/torch.
Hostels Worldwide – find and book cheap hostels online

Travel Tips Forum – share your own travel tips or warnings with fellow travellers.

Posted in General Travel, Hostels, Travel Gear, Travel News, Travel Tips & Planning, Travel Tools