General Fire Safety Information

Prevent Fire Deaths!

Fires can be prevented from starting if you take some simple precautions:

• Assign a non-impaired “event monitor” at parties and similar functions.
• Clean up immediately after parties, and take all trash outside to metal containers with metal lids.
• Do not overload electrical outlets.
• Keep space heaters and halogen lamps away from combustibles.
• Extinguish candles and incense when unattended.
• Extinguish all smoking materials thoroughly.
• Don’t smoke while tired or impaired.

 Protect Yourself and Your Property!

You can also protect yourself from becoming trapped in a fire situation by following some important suggestions:

• Make certain your fire alarm system is in good working order, and do not disable smoke alarms.
• Plan escape routes. Know where all exits are in the building, and practice your escape plan.
• Take fire alarms seriously. Do not ignore them or wait until you see fire or smoke. By then, it might be too late to get out safely. Don’t worry about grabbing your stuff. JUST GO!!!

 Make a Plan!

You can make a plan for your own fire safety and protection as soon as you get home by:

• Making certain your smoke alarms and fire alarm systems are in good working order.
• Finding all possible exits from your room or residence.
• Making a fire escape route plan that includes two escape routes.
• Practicing your fire escape route plan.
• Performing a “house inspection” for fire and safety hazards.
• Telling your housemates about your plan.
• Calling your fire department (766-6961) for more information.

Get Out Alive!

If you get caught in a fire situation, survival is your top priority. You should:

• Feel the door handle.
  • if it’s hot, don’t open it.
  • Go to a window and climb out or call for help.
  • If the handle is not hot, open the door cautiously.
  • Check for smoke or fire before leaving the room.
• Get out of the building before phoning for help.
  • Don’t take the time to phone before leaving.
  • Get out and find a phone.
• Pull the fire alarm on your way out.
• Don’t look for other people or gather up your stuff.
  • Knock on doors as you leave.
  • Yell “FIRE!” as you leave.
  • Don’t hesitate or stray from your path as you leave.
• If you MUST exit through smoke, crawl low to the floor (on your hands and knees).
  • Thick smoke can make it impossible to see.
  • Toxic chemicals from smoke can be deadly in minutes. Stay low; there is less smoke and poisonous gas close to the floor.
• Close the door behind you.
  • You may help keep the fire from spreading. You may protect your possessions from fire and smoke damage.
• If you can’t get out, get someone’s attention.
  • Yell and scream.
  • Hang a sheet from the window.
  • Seal open spaces (such as under the door) by pushing a towel or some kind of cloth into the space.