Fire Safety

To escape a fire, you should:

Check closed doors for heat before you open them. Use the back of your hand to feel the top of the door, gap between the door and door frame, and doorknob (check last). Never use the palm of your hand or fingers to test for heat, as burning these areas can impair your ability to escape the fire if you need to climb or crawl.
 
Hot Door - Do NOT open. Escape through a window, if possible. If not, hang a white or light-colored piece of fabric (sheet/shirt, etc.) outside the window to alert fire fighters of your location. Call 911, if possible.


Cool Door - Open slowly and ensure there is no fire or smoke blocking your escape route. If blocked, shut the door immediately and use an alternate escape route such as a window. If clear, leave immediately and close the door behind you. Be prepared to crawl as heat and smoke rise.


Crawl low under any smoke to your exit. Heavy smoke and poisonous gases first collect by the ceiling.
Close doors behind you to delay the spread of smoke and fire.
Once you are out of the building, do NOT reenter. Call 911, if needed.
Go to the building’s assigned assembly area.

 

Fire extinguishers should only be used for small fires that are confined to an area such as a garbage can or microwave. Do not attempt to use a fire extinguisher unless you are trained and comfortable doing so. If the fire is not extinguished by one fire extinguisher, evacuate immediately and ensure the fire alarm is activated and emergency personnel have been notified. Your safety is the priority, not putting out the fire.