Public Safety tip of the week

• NEVER IGNORE A FIRE ALARM.
• Every second counts in an emergency. Have an escape plan. If there isn’t one in place devise one with your roommates. Exit via staircases and fire exits, DON’T use the elevators. Know two exits from your room, but expect that one or both could become blocked.
• Know how many doorways, desks, or work stations it is to the exit in case the smoke prevents your being able to see to exit. Put a wet towel or t shirt over your mouth to keep from breathing in too much smoke. Above all, don’t panic!
• Once you have evacuated let safety personnel know of any disabled students that may not have been able to leave without assistance. Once you have left the building, stay outside and away from the building until emergency personnel notify you it is safe to return.
• If you cannot safely evacuate stay in your room with the door shut NOT locked. Stay near a window, if possible, but do NOT break the window. You may need to close it later to prevent oxygen from fueling the fire. Stay calm!
• If you have to…STOP! DROP! and ROLL!

Fire Prevention:

• Know where the nearest fire extinguisher is, and how to use it.
• Never block an exit, and promptly report any signs of blockage or malfunction to building management.
• Never store fuels, paints, varnishes, “strike anywhere matches,” or other flammables in your dorm room or office.
• Candles, incense, oil lamps, halogen lights, toaster ovens, and fireworks and smoking indoors are prohibited from all residence halls. Charcoal and gas grills should never be used indoors.
• Look for the UL Mark on any electrical appliances, or extension cord you use.
  • Do not connect multiple extension cords together or overload extension cords. Instead, get a power strip instead with an over-current protector.
  • Do not route cords under carpets or doors or staple extension cords. Do not use extension cords that are cut or damaged.
  • Never keep an extension cord plugged in when not in use as it will still conduct electricity.
  • Be wary of electrical outlets that get too hot to touch and NEVER cut off a grounding pin.
    
• Use the recommended wattage for your microwave and your refrigerator. Use the correct light bulb wattage recommended by your lamps’ manufacturers. Never exceed the wattage.
• If you drink, be conservative in your drinking habits. Your ability to detect a fire diminishes with each drink you take.