Fire

To protect yourself, it is important to understand the basic characteristics of fire. Fire spreads quickly; there is no time to gather valuables or make a phone call. In just two minutes, a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can be engulfed in flames.

Heat and smoke from fire can be more dangerous than the flames. Inhaling the super-hot air can sear your lungs. Fire produces poisonous gases that make you disoriented and drowsy. Instead of being awakened by a fire, you may fall into a deeper sleep. Asphyxiation is the leading cause of fire deaths, exceeding burns by a three-to-one ratio.

Protective measures you can take:

    1. Know the location of fire extinguishers in your area and know how to use them. Training and information are available through Campus Security.
    2. Know your escape routes.
    3. Check closed doors for heat before you open them.
      • If the door is hot, DO NOT OPEN.
      • If the door is cold, open slowly and ensure fire and/or smoke is not blocking your escape route. If your escape route is blocked, shut the door immediately and use an alternate escape route, such as a window. If clear, leave immediately through the door and close it behind you. Be prepared to crawl. Smoke and heat rise. The air is clearer and cooler near the floor.

       

    4. On a minor fire that appears controllable, immediately contact Campus Security. Promptly direct the charge of the fire extinguisher toward the base of the flame.
      1. PULL
      2. AIM
      3. SQUEEZE
      4. SWEEP

       

    5. Call Campus Security at 740-283-6911 or 911. If necessary, or if directed to do so by Campus Security or authorized University personnel, activate the building fire alarm.
    6. On large fires that do not appear controllable, immediately contact Campus Security or call 911 and the building contact person. Evacuate all affected rooms closing all doors to confine the fire and reduce oxygen. DO NOT LOCK DOORS!
    7. In the event a person’s clothing is on fire, you must take the following steps:
      • Stop, drop and roll. Roll the person around on floor to smother the flame, or drench the person with water if emergency shower is immediately available.
      • Obtain medical attention, if necessary.

       

    8. Report the incident to recognized authority.
    9. When the building fire alarm is sounded or when told to leave by Campus Security or by authorized University personnel, walk quickly to the nearest marked exit, and alert others to do the same.
    10. Assist people with disabilities in exiting the building. Do not use elevators in case of fire.
    11. Once outside, move to a clear area away from the affected building. Keep the streets and walkways clear for emergency vehicles and personnel.
    12. Do not return to an evacuated building unless directed to do so by Campus Security or by recognized authority.

 

NOTE: If you become trapped in a building during a fire and a window is available, place an article of clothing (shirt, coat, etc.) outside the window as a marker for emergency personnel. If there’s no window, stay near the floor, where the air will be more breathable. Shout at regular intervals to alert emergency personnel of your location.

null