Why Stairwells Can Be Safer Than Elevators In Emergencies

When an emergency occurs in a hotel, many guests instinctively head for the nearest elevator. In reality, safety experts recommend the exact opposite.

During fires, power outages, earthquakes, and other emergencies, elevators can become unreliable. They may lose power, stop between floors, or open directly into hazardous areas filled with smoke or flames. In some situations, elevators may automatically return to a designated floor and become unavailable for guest use.

Stairwells, on the other hand, are specifically designed to serve as emergency escape routes. Building codes often require them to be enclosed and constructed with fire-resistant materials, helping to keep smoke and heat away from occupants for a period of time.

One of the simplest travel safety habits is to locate the nearest stairwell as soon as you check into your hotel. Take note of the closest emergency exit and count the number of doors between your room and the stairwell. This information can be invaluable if visibility becomes limited during an emergency.

Stress and panic can make it difficult to think clearly. By familiarizing yourself with your evacuation route beforehand, you eliminate guesswork when every second matters.

The next time you check into a hotel, spend thirty seconds locating the nearest stairwell. It could become the most important part of your stay.