Operate an Elevator in Fire Service Mode
Many elevators feature a "fire service mode" which enables firefighters to use them in order to rescue people who may be trapped on upper floors. This article explains the operation of this mode.
Steps
- Know that fire service mode can be activated automatically (whenever smoke is detected within the building) or manually (using a key switch located on the ground floor).
- Understand that when fire service mode is activated, each elevator will automatically return to the ground floor. If smoke has been detected on the ground floor, the elevators will return to an alternate floor. Once the elevators have arrived at the recall floor, the doors will open.
- At this point, the elevators will remain inoperable. In order to use them, you must set the fire service key switch (located in each elevator) to one of the following positions:
- On: Permits usage of the elevator in fire service mode
- Bypass: Returns the elevator to normal operation
- You may now select a floor (or group of floors) to go to. Pressing the "Call Cancel" button will clear your selection(s).
- The elevator will not leave the floor until the "Door Close" button is held down. You must hold this button until the doors are fully closed; otherwise, they will reopen.
- The elevator will travel to the desired floor. When it stops, the doors will remain closed. This is a safety feature. You must hold the "Door Open" button until the doors are fully open. If smoke or flames enter the elevator, release the button immediately. The doors will close.
- If you wish to leave the elevator, set the fire service key switch to "Hold" and remove the key. This prevents others from using the elevator. To continue using fire service mode, reinsert the key and turn it to "On".
- To return to the recall floor, set the fire service key switch to "Off".
- The elevators will continue to remain inoperable. To return them to normal operation, turn the fire recall switch (located in the hallway) to "Reset".
- It should be noted that each elevator manufacturer uses their own fire service key. That's why you often see a Knox- box for firefighters to obtain the proper key for a building's specific model elevator. For example, a Dover (Thyssen-Krupp) elevator uses a different key than an Otis.
Tips
- These instructions may be slightly different depending on the elevator's manufacturer. Most elevators with a fire service mode will have instructions posted.
- You will be able to access floors which are normally locked. Have fun exploring!
Warnings
- In the event of a real fire, DO NOT USE THE ELEVATORS!!! Firefighters have received special training regarding the use of elevators during fires.
- Some major cities (like Chicago and NYC) use a single universal fire key for all elevators.
- You must have a special key in order to use fire service mode. Each elevator manufacturer uses a different type of key.
Things You'll Need
- An elevator with a fire service mode
- A key that will work with that particular elevator
