Fire

In Preparation for a Fire

  • Plan and practice an escape route.
  • Get training from Environmental Health and Safety on using fire extinguishers.
  • Extension cords can be dangerous. Never run them under carpets, or anywhere they can be pinched under or behind furniture. Avoid overloading electrical sockets and plugging extension cords together.
  • Keep all electrical appliances away from anything that can catch fire. Remember to always turn them off at the end of the day.
  • Pay attention to housekeeping issues. Do not clutter exits, stairways, and storage areas with waste paper, empty boxes and other fire hazards.
  • Do not store combustible materials in closed areas or near a heat source.

If there is a fire inside the building:

  • Activate a fire alarm or pull station.
  • Call 911 and give your name, building name, address, floor, location and related information.
  • Evacuate the building using building evacuation instructions.

When the building fire alarms sound:

Do:
  • Immediately evacuate using building emergency plan procedures.
  • Walk to nearest exit/stairwell (close doors behind you).
  • Proceed to the designated gathering area outside the building and report to your floor proctor (for a headcount).
  • Assist with the evacuation of individuals with specials needs.
Don’t:
  • Do not use the elevators.

  • Do not re-enter the building until cleared by authorized personnel.

Using a Fire Extinguisher

You can use a portable fire extinguisher if:

  • You are properly trained (you have had hands-on training).
  • It is a small, contained fire (e.g. wastebasket).
  • You can extinguish it within 12 seconds (evacuate if it takes longer).

Shelter in Place

If you are unable to leave the building, you should create an area of refuge:

  • Seal the room.
  • Use wet cloth to stuff around cracks in floors and seal up vents to protect against smoke.
  • Stay low under smoke.
  • The freshest air is near the floor. Keep a wet cloth over your nose and mouth; breath through your nose only.
  • Signal for help.
  • Call 911 or hang something in the window.
  • Do not break windows, unless as a last resort for escape.