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Fire prevention week

Fire Prevention Week is Oct. 7-13, 2018.

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.