FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE AFFAIRS DIVISION
FACILITIES & PLANNING
Fire Identification, Notification and Emergency Evacuation
Policy #F&P 2003-8

I. PURPOSE

To provide information regarding procedures to follow should a fire situation be identified

II. POLICY

A. Identification/Notification

1. In the event that anyone smells smoke or sees fire or smoke and there is a building fire alarm system, they should immediately activate the alarm to evacuate the building by using the nearest pull station. Even if the fire is
known to be small, the alarm should be activated immediately. The fire could grow quickly, endangering building occupants. All building occupants should be familiar with fire alarm pull locations.

2. After activating the fire alarm, the person discovering the fire should  immediately call University Police at 3333, from a safe location, and provide the emergency dispatcher with the name and location of the building and
information about the fire. The SRU Police Department will notify the Slippery Rock Volunteer Fire Department (SRVFD).

3. After the alarm has been sounded and the fire has been reported, an attempt should be made to extinguish the fire if it is small and if it can be extinguished without exposing oneself to injury. Portable fire extinguishers
are available for use for those trained. Otherwise, evacuate along with others and stand by to tell officials the exact location of the fire and other pertinent information.

B. Evacuation

1. The primary concern in the event of a fire is to evacuate everyone from the building as quickly as possible. In order to accomplish this, occupants must be prepared in advance for quick and orderly evacuation. Periodic meetings should be held with all personnel to explain, in detail, evacuation procedures. When the fire alarm sounds, immediate evacuation is required.

2. If time and conditions permit, close all doors and windows (do not lock doors, unless for security purposes).

3. When on floors above ground level, always use stairways to exit the building (NEVER USE ELEVATORS).

4. Once outside, stay clear of doors, sidewalks and roadways.

5. Return to the building only after being directed to do so by members of the University Police/EH&S Office/SRVFD.

6. Instructors are responsible for ensuring safe evacuation of all students, including those with disabilities. Should you have a mobility-impaired student and need further direction or have any questions/concerns regarding student evacuation, please contact the EH&S office (2055).

C. Evacuation of Individuals with Disabilities.

1. When the alarm sounds and you are unable to make your way down stairs, obtain assistance from other individuals who are familiar with your disability.

2. If no one is able to assist you down the stairs, proceed to the stairwell and inform other evacuees that you need immediate rescue. Stairwells are designed to provide protection from smoke and fire; however, doors to these areas must be kept closed in order to afford you this protection.

3. If you are unable to make your way to the stairwell ask several individuals to activate the fire alarm on your floor. This will alert the fire rescue team by illuminating the light on the annunciator panel zoned for your floor and
will initiate a direct response to your floor. Also, ask individuals to inform rescuers of your whereabouts.

4. While you are waiting, position yourself so that your face is as close to the floor as possible. Smoke rises and most of the available oxygen is near the floor. If smoke becomes too dense to breathe, place clothing or some other heavy cloth over your nose and mouth to filter as much smoke as possible until help arrives.