But, because they may contain large numbers of people, and because of the buildings' tremendous size, Fire Department response is difficult and the potential for major incidents is great. As a high building occupant, you must be aware that, due to the physical limitations of Fire Department equipment, fire fighters cannot rescue you from any balcony or window above the seventh floor. Also, rooftop helicopter rescue is too dangerous. Fire fighters must resort to interior fire fighting and rescue tactics. Floors and ceilings are constructed with fire-resistive materials and are separated into fire compartments which act as a barrier to resist fire spreading from one compartment to another.
High buildings contain a fire alarm system designed to alert occupants when activated.
If you discover a fire and if practical to do so, activate the red manual pull station next to the stairwell when leaving the fire floor. This will identify the specific location at the lobby alarm panel to responding fire fighters. Interior fire escape stairways High buildings are designed with interior fire-separated stairwell shafts. Signs should be posted within the stairwell indicating which floor level you are on, and indicating every fifth floor as a designated crossover floor. In addition, high buildings contain a standpipe system, which is an interior water supply system of fire hose cabinets on each floor for use by fire fighters.