Fire safety is a relevant workplace safety topic at the university. While most of the university spaces are supported with state-of-the-art fire detection, notification and suppression systems, individual actions and behaviors can have an impact on survivability in a fire situation. It is important to review the following fire safety information.

• Fires can occur while cooking, where flammable chemicals are in use and around electrical equipment: Be mindful.
  • Never leave food cooking unattended (stovetop or microwave).
  • Follow established safety procedures whenever working with hazardous materials and only work with these materials in appropriately supported work areas.
  • Check to ensure all electrical cords are in good condition prior to use. Do not use extension cords as a regular means to provide power to equipment or work areas.
  • Never tamper with fire alarms, smoke or heat detectors.
• When a fire alarm sounds, evacuate.
  • Do not assume alarms are unwarranted; rather assume the alarm is for a reason.
  • Tell others around you as you are evacuating.
  • As you leave your work area, if safe to do so, take personal items that are immediately available (coat, keys, cellphone); close doors as you exit.
  • Assemble with your workgroup at your designated Emergency Assembly Point (EAP).
  • Do not re-enter until the “all clear” is given by the fire department or other first responding personnel.
• Attempt to extinguish a fire with an extinguisher only if the fire is a small enough size for the extinguisher to be effective, you have been trained and you have a “buddy” with you to help.
  • Portable fire extinguishers are mounted in corridors at 75-foot intervals.
  • Report missing fire extinguishers to Facility Operations at 1-7221.
  • Extinguisher use training is available from OEHS. For the next available training click here.
• Always work to eliminate obstructions
  • Keep corridors and exits free of obstructions that could impede quick evacuation.
  • Manage storage of materials so that sprinkler heads are not blocked.
  • Manage equipment and furniture placement so fire alarm pull stations are easy to reach.
• Be prepared!
  • Power may go out in a fire: keep a flashlight or glow stick available to help you see to get out.
  • Always know two ways out of your work areas.
  • Correct hazards or report them to your supervisor or the University Fire Marshal.

For more information on the National Fire Prevention Week click here.