A devastating fire broke out at the 12-story Grand Kartal Hotel in the northwestern Turkish province of Bolu on Monday evening, leading to the tragic loss of at least 76 lives. Turkey's Interior Minister, Ali Yerlikaya, disclosed that over 50 others sustained injuries, some of which were serious, as emergency services rushed to the scene. The Grand Kartal Hotel is situated in the picturesque Kartalkaya ski resort, nestled in the Koroglu mountains of Bolu province, approximately 300 kilometres (185 miles) east of Istanbul. At the time of the fire, the hotel was exceptionally crowded, as families and tourists filled the premises during a two-week winter break for schools nationwide. Eyewitness accounts and preliminary investigations indicated that the hotel’s fire detection system may have failed to function, which could have worsened the situation.
The tragic events at the Grand Kartal Hotel are a stark reminder of the critical importance of fire safety protocols. With numerous potential fire hazards present, hotel management and guests must be well-informed and prepared to respond effectively during a fire emergency.
When you check into a hotel, fire safety often takes a backseat to relaxation and adventure. However, understanding the layout of your accommodation and knowing the fire safety protocols can significantly enhance your safety. Here are some important points to keep in mind for fire safety when staying in a hotel.
In an emergency situation like a fire, every second truly matters. Wasting precious time searching for your belongings or room keys can have serious consequences. To ensure a swift and effective evacuation, make it a priority to keep your room key, flashlight, and shoes within easy reach of your bed. These essential items allow you to focus on getting out quickly and safely. Always keep a flashlight nearby to prepare to evacuate in the dark or through smoke—because being ready can make all the difference.
One of the most crucial aspects of staying safe in a hotel is knowing how to exit quickly and effectively in the event of a fire. When you first arrive, take the time to review the evacuation plan. Visualise your escape route to the nearest exit, ensuring you're clear on how to get there. Familiarise yourself with the escape plan posted in your room and throughout the hallways. Count and remember the number of doors you must pass through to reach the nearest stairs or exit. Pay attention to fire doors; these should always be closed and not propped open. Report blocked or locked exits to the manager.
Locate the nearest fire alarm pull station so you know how to alert others in case of an emergency. Understand the fire alarm procedures: should the alarm sound, evacuate the building immediately and calmly. Taking these steps can significantly increase your safety during your stay.
As a responsible guest, when you are in the room, it’s essential to prioritise safety by avoiding the overloading of electrical circuits, using non-standard appliances, and ensuring proper wiring. Your awareness can help prevent accidents.
In a fire emergency, always prioritise using the stairs over the elevator. Elevators can become deadly smoke chambers instantly, trapping you and complicating rescue efforts for firefighters. Choosing the stairs keeps you safer and helps emergency responders reach those in need more efficiently.
Ensure your safety by turning off all fans and air conditioners. Block the gap under the door with towels, sheets, or clothing to keep smoke out. Position yourself by the window and signal for help from the arriving professionals.
Should you find yourself needing to move through smoke, remember to crawl on your hands and knees. Keep your head above the ground, where the air remains cleaner. Stay low under the smoke as you make your way to safety—this can make all the difference in ensuring your survival.
