Fire

Understanding how to prepare and assist in the event of a fire on campus can greatly improve outcomes for injuries, loss of life, and damage to school property. 

Prepare For a Fire

Know the location of fire extinguishers and fire alarms in your area and how to use them. Different types of fires require different types of fire extinguishers. Familiarize yourself with the extinguishers in your area.

Create and rehearse a fire escape plan. Identify the nearest fire exits. Create multiple escape routes, if possible. Walk your escape routes frequently to ensure there are never obstacles in the way. Check doors and windows to ensure they are not stuck or difficult to operate. Make sure that fire rated doors are closed at all times.

During a Fire

Get yourself to safety. Activate the fire alarm along the way, if possible. If you cannot get to someone that needs assistance, exit the building, call 911, and tell them where the person is located.

If necessary, crawl low under any smoke to get to your escape routes. Before opening any door, feel the doorknob and door. If it is hot or if smoke is coming from around the door, do not open the door and use an alternate escape route. If you open a door, do it slowly and be ready to shut it quickly should fire or heavy smoke be present.

If you can't escape, close any doors and vents to keep smoke out. Call 911 immediately.

If there is a window in your room, use a light-colored cloth or flashlight to signal for help.

If your clothes catch fire, Stop, Drop, and Roll.

If you are assisting someone else, use a blanket or towel to smother the flames.

If you or someone else has been burned, use cool water to treat the burn for 3-5 minutes. Cover with a clean, dry cloth and call 911 immediately.

Elevators can become a trap during a fire. Utilize stairs.

Learn how to assist persons evacuate on our Evacuation page.

Do not return to a building until instructed by Emergency Responders.

Fighting Fires

For minor fires that appear controllable, utilize the proper fire extinguisher to put out the type of fire you're fighting. Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher.

If a fire is very large, very smoky, and/or rapidly spreading, do not take unnecessary chances that will endanger yourself or others. Get to safety using your escape routes. Close all doors to confine the fire and reduce oxygen. Activate any fire alarms along your way, if possible. Once outside, call 911 immediately.