Fire or Explosion
Each year college and university students experience fire-related emergencies on campus. There are several specific causes for fires on college campuses which can occur in classrooms, kitchen areas, and labs to name a few. There are three excellent tools available for our students, faculty and staff to become more safety minded. It is always a good idea to have some understanding of what can cause fire injuries, how to prevent them from occurring, and what to do in the event of a fire.
Typical combustible materials inside buildings include
Materials such as
- wood
- paper
- rags
- clothing
- plastics
- chemicals
- flammable liquids
- gases
- dusts
Some parts of buildings which may be combustible
- floors
- partitions
- roofs
Typical combustible materials outside of buildings include
- dry leaves
- grass and brush
Examples
- Any open flame that is unattended
- Electrical shortage
- Smoke detection
What to do in the event of a fire
- Call 911 and give the exact location, extent of the fire, and any special circumstances that could be hazardous, such as chemicals or faulty equipment.
- Evacuate area & pull fire alarm. This will alert everyone in the building and DPS.
- Use nearest exit or alternate safe route. Do not use the elevators.
- Individuals needing assistance during an evacuation are encouraged to develop personal action to their rescue assistance plan, and contacts within their building.
- Stay 500 feet away from the building. Do not return until the “all clear” is given.
- If you have a fire in your building you can also contact the building coordinator.
- A list of Building coordinators can be found at: add page here
What to do in the event of an explosion
- Get under a sturdy table or desk if things are falling around you. When they stop falling leave quickly.
- Do not use elevators
- Once you are out of the building do not stand in front of windows, glass doors, or other potentially hazardous areas.
