If you are exposed to smoke from a fire, get to fresh air by a safe route. Call 995 for an active fire, someone trapped, or anyone with breathing difficulty, confusion or collapse. If you cannot leave without entering heavy smoke, call from where you are, give your exact location and follow SCDF instructions. SCDF emergency medical services · Singapore Red Cross first-aid manual
Smoke inhalation can cause serious injury even without a visible skin burn. Seek prompt medical assessment after significant exposure, especially in an enclosed room. Tell clinicians about hoarseness, persistent coughing, soot around the nose or mouth, or burns to the face. Singapore Red Cross first-aid manual · NSW Emergency Care Institute smoke inhalation guidance
- Get clear of smoke and stay out of the building.
- Call 995 for an active fire, rescue or life-threatening symptoms.
- Tell responders how long the person was exposed and whether the space was enclosed.
On this page · Once You Are Outside · What to Watch For · Frequently Asked Questions
Once You Are Outside
Stay where emergency crews can find you. If someone remains inside, give their last known location to SCDF. Leave the rescue to trained responders. Tell them whether the fire involved a flat, a vehicle or an enclosed stairwell, and whether the person has any breathing symptoms or other injuries. Singapore Red Cross first-aid manual · SCDF emergency medical services
What to Watch For
Airway swelling or lung symptoms can develop after exposure. Report worsening cough, hoarseness, noisy breathing or trouble breathing promptly. If breathing becomes difficult, the person becomes confused or they collapse, call 995. Follow the clinician’s discharge advice if they have already been assessed. NSW Emergency Care Institute smoke inhalation guidance · MOH emergency symptoms
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a person need a visible burn to have inhaled smoke?
No. Smoke and gases can harm the airway and lungs without an obvious skin burn. Give the medical team the exposure history. NSW Emergency Care Institute smoke inhalation guidance
What if a family member is still inside?
Tell 995 their last known room, unit and floor. Stay outside and direct responders to the entrance. Singapore Red Cross first-aid manual · SCDF emergency medical services