Fire Emergencies

Description: 

Fires inside of a building can be caused by a variety of reasons. If a fire is discovered inside of your building, please follow these instructions.

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Emergency Response Team/Leadership

  • Ensure the pull station has been activated or 9-1-1 has been called.

  • When emergency response personnel arrive, brief them on the situation and ensure they are directed to the location of the fire as well as the location of anyone in an area of refuge or trapped by the fire.

• Staff

  • If You Discover Fire or Smoke Remember: R.A.C.E.

    • R - Rescue: Remove anyone from immediate danger.

    • A - Alarm: Activate the nearest fire alarm pull station. Call 9-1-1 and describe the conditions to the Dispatcher.

    • C - Contain: Close all doors to confine smoke and fire.

    • E - Extinguish/Evacuate: If the fire is small and you have been trained in fire extinguisher use, you can attempt to extinguish a fire. Otherwise follow your Evacuation Plan and proceed to the nearest exit and designated assembly area outside the building.

Additional Information:

• Using a fire extinguisher

  • If it is only a small fire, i.e. trashcan, put it out by using the nearest extinguisher. If you are not trained in the PASS method of extinguisher use, DO NOT attempt to put the fire out.

  • The PASS method is to PULL the extinguisher’s safety pin, AIM extinguisher at base of fire, SQUEEZE the handle and SWEEP the extinguisher from side to side.

  • DO NOT RISK YOUR SAFETY WITH FUTILE ATTEMPTS TO EXTINGUISH FIRES.

• If You Catch on Fire Do Not Run!

  • Stop where you are.

  • Drop to the ground.

  • Roll over and over to smother flames.

• Response to Fire Alarms or Explosion

  • Remain calm, evacuate and stay with your group.

  • Do not open any door that feels hot.

  • Do not return to your area for personal belongings.

• If smoke is present, stay low

  • Never allow the fire to come between you and the exit. Realize there may be some smoke present in the best exit route.

  • Use the stairway or horizontal exit to evacuate – DO NOT USE the elevators!

  • Before exiting each room, designate someone to assure lights are off, windows are closed, and the door(s) are shut but not locked. While exiting close doors to unoccupied rooms if possible.

  • Individuals with disabilities should exit to the designated area of refuge (which could be a stairwell), or outside by horizontal egress (when available).

  • Once you have reached the designated assembly area, report any missing person(s) to Emergency Personnel. Only return to the building when directed by Emergency Personnel.

• Fire Prevention

  • Turn off unattended electrical equipment.

  • Report improperly stored materials.

  • Use extension cords that are UL listed.

  • Space heaters are not allowed in many State buildings - check for specific guidance for your building.

  • All surge protectors are to be UL1449 listed.