The Ghost Ship fire was a tragic reminder that public places can be very dangerous. Not only fire, but an earthquake or act of violence could cause danger, panic and chaos. To stay safe, do the following any time you enter a public place, including movie theaters, clubs, stadiums and restaurants:

• Immediately identify ALL exits. The one closest to you may become a “pinch point” if too many people try to use it, or it may turn out to be blocked, so know all your options. Create a mental map of the place that you can use to get out if there is smoke, loss of lighting or panic.

• Take note of any obstacles such as furniture that might prevent you from getting to or using an exit; test exit doors to be sure they are unlocked if you can.

• Identify any dangers: Flammable or combustible items, use of pyrotechnics or candles, unsafe wiring, confined spaces, excessive number of people, lack of adequate exits or access to them.

• Observe if there are mandatory safety features like lighted exit signs, sprinkler systems, fire alarm pull boxes and fire extinguishers. If not, the venue is dangerous – likely in other ways that aren’t as obvious, too.

• LEAVE any venue that seems unsafe! Losing the cost of admission is nothing compared to losing your life.

• Talk to management if you see something unsafe that they could address immediately. But if there is grave or immediate danger, get out fast and then call +256778529937

• If there is a fire, get low to the ground and find your way out as quickly as you can.

• Only follow the crowd if you can tell that people are getting out quickly that way. Exits can be blocked. If people are piling up rather than streaming out, quickly look for another exit to use.

• Always have a designated spot outside the venue to meet up in case you get separated from the people you came with. Don’t assume you’ll be able to call; one of you might drop and lose your phone in the confusion of an emergency evacuation.