In recent years, the skyline of Liuzhou has been rapidly changing with the continuous rise of high-rise buildings. Among them, one towering structure reaching 303 meters has become the tallest in Guangxi. According to fire department statistics, there are currently five buildings over 100 meters tall in the city, with 18 more under construction. Over 880 buildings exceed 24 meters in height. As the number of skyscrapers increases, so do the associated safety risks.
On June 14th, a fire broke out on the 13th floor of a high-rise building in the Classic Age complex, requiring fire trucks with 32-meter and 53-meter ladders to respond. What should people do if a fire occurs in a high-rise building with more than 20 floors? Beyond fires, what other hidden dangers exist in such structures? Recently, a reporter visited a high-rise in Liuzhou to explore these issues and discuss possible solutions.
According to the Fire Prevention Department of the Liuzhou Fire Fighting Brigade, high-rise buildings are rising too quickly, far outpacing the development of firefighting equipment. Most local fire teams are equipped with ladders that reach up to 32 meters, with the highest being 53 meters—equivalent to about 17 floors. If a taller building catches fire, firefighters may be limited in their ability to reach higher floors. Therefore, it is crucial for the public to understand basic self-rescue techniques in case of an emergency.
At the Liushajiao project, a mixed-use high-rise complex with 25, 27, and 31 floors, the property manager Ma Kangwu guided the reporter through the facilities. Each floor is equipped with smoke detectors connected to a central fire display panel. When smoke is detected, the system alerts staff and activates lights in the control room. Sprinklers and laser alarm bells are installed throughout the building, automatically activating when temperatures reach 60–80°C or when water is detected.
Once a fire is confirmed, staff can trigger alarms, activate fire broadcasts, and start ventilation fans to reduce smoke levels. Fire extinguishers, hydrants, and pressure pumps are available on every floor, ensuring quick access to firefighting tools. To ensure comprehensive safety, the building also features electronic patrol points, which security guards check using a handheld device, recording their rounds for review weekly.
Despite these measures, some residents still leave items in fire escape routes, including stairwells and corridors. This behavior poses serious risks during emergencies. Property managers have implemented awareness campaigns and regularly clear such obstructions, urging residents to maintain safe environments.
For buildings over 100 meters, China’s fire protection codes require refuge floors—safe areas where people can temporarily stay during a fire. These floors are designed with non-flammable materials and ventilation systems to help contain the spread of fire and smoke. For example, two 47-story residential towers in Liuzhou have designated refuge floors at certain levels, while the 300-meter-tall Diwang International Wealth Center also includes such spaces.
Fire experts recommend that high-rise residents prepare essential safety items: a damp towel, a flashlight, and an escape descent device. These tools can significantly increase survival chances during a fire. Escape devices, ranging from tens to hundreds of yuan, are available online and in local fire equipment stores. Alternatively, a safety rope with a buckle can be used as a backup.
Although Liuzhou is not a major earthquake zone, small tremors have raised concerns among high-rise residents. While most buildings are designed with seismic resistance in mind, improper renovations—such as removing load-bearing walls—can weaken structural integrity. In the event of an earthquake, residents are advised to avoid elevators and move to open areas immediately. Protective gear like helmets can also help prevent injuries from falling debris.
Falling objects, such as glass windows or air-conditioning units, also pose a risk. In March, strong winds caused several windows to break and air-conditioning brackets to fall in Hongqiao Xinqiao Community. Property management now enforces strict installation guidelines for balconies and windows to prevent such incidents. Residents who violate these rules are given time to correct their installations.
As cities continue to grow vertically, ensuring the safety of high-rise buildings remains a critical challenge. From fire prevention to earthquake preparedness and falling object hazards, both authorities and residents must work together to create safer living environments.
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