Fire

Response to Fire or Suspected Fire

  1. If a burning odor or smoke is present, pull a fire alarm to activate the fire alarm system.
  2. If possible, shut off gas in your area (for example, if you’re in a lab).
  3. If you can help control the fire without personal danger and have received training, take action with available fire extinguisher or fire hose. If not, leave the area.
  4. Never allow the fire to come between you and an exit.
  5. Leave the building, checking as you leave to make sure everyone has left the immediate area. Close doors behind you to confine the fire.
  6. Treat EVERY fire alarm like it is real. Your life could depend on your reaction to the alarm.
  7. Once you have evacuated the building, dial 911 or (330) 287-3333 (Campus Safety) and report the location of the fire and the material burning if known. Report this information to fire and police personnel as they arrive.

Response to Audible Fire Alarms

  1. If the audible fire alarm sounds, shut off any gas in your area, and evacuate the building.
  2. Leave immediately; do not delay to locate personal items. Treat every alarm like it is real.
  3. Try to make sure that all members of your department hear the alarm and evacuate the area by quickly checking nearby restrooms, copier rooms, storage rooms, etc., as you exit.
  4. Use the nearest stairway. Do not use the elevator.
  5. If requested, accompany and assist persons with disabilities.
  6. Shut all doors behind you as you go. Closed doors can slow the spread of fire and smoke.
  7. Evacuate as quickly as possible but in an orderly manner. Do not push or shove.
  8. Once outside, move at least 100 feet from the building.
  9. Meet at a predetermined location to account for all members of your unit.
  10. Return to the building only when given the “All Clear” by university police or other proper emergency personnel. Do not assume that when the audible alarm ceases it is safe to enter the building. There are many possible reasons for the alarm to stop sounding.

Close Before You Doze

Closing your bedroom door before going to sleep can save your life in the event of a fire. Research shows that 50% of home fire deaths occur between the hours of 11pm and 7am.

Watch this real-life video that highlights the importance of a closed door while sleeping: