Fire Safety + Emergency Evacuation
Critical Response Time: Fires spread rapidly and can grow out of control in as little as 30 seconds (according to Ready.gov). If you are not trained to operate a fire extinguisher or cannot control the fire immediately, evacuate to safety and contact emergency services.
How to Prepare for a Fire Emergency
Locate the Building Evacuation Routes Map posted near entrances, elevators, and stairwells. These maps contain critical layout details including exit routes, emergency exits, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, and shelter areas.
Whenever you enter a new building or need a refresher, consult the evacuation map for guidance on fire or natural disaster protocols.
Severe Weather Shelter Locations
Tornado shelter locations are highlighted on the map with a green dotted outline:
Fire Response for Individuals with Mobility Issues
Step 1: Identify Accessible Routes & Rescue Areas
Locate accessible exit routes and designated Areas of Rescue Assistance on the building evacuation map. These areas are also marked with illuminated overhead signage.
Step 2: Evacuate or Proceed to Rescue Area
Head to an accessible emergency exit. If the route is impassable or inaccessible, proceed to the nearest Area of Rescue Assistance and wait for emergency personnel to arrive.
Areas of Rescue Assistance feature fire-rated construction to buy crucial time until emergency responders can complete a rescue.
Classes of Fire Extinguishers
Different classes of extinguishers are engineered to suppress specific fuel types. Classes A, B, C, and K are the most common in commercial and residential settings.
- Class A: Combustible non-metal solids (e.g., wood, paper, cardboard). Memory aid: "A" is for Ashes.
- Class B: Flammable liquids and gases (e.g., oil, gasoline, grease, kerosene).
- Class C: Electrical equipment fires (energized electrical circuits).
- Class D: Combustible metals (e.g., magnesium, lithium, sodium) commonly found in industrial and laboratory environments.
- Class K: Commercial and residential kitchen fires involving cooking oils and fats.
Fire Doors and Compartmentation
Fire doors are fire-rated barriers designed to contain fire and smoke within specific compartments for a specified duration, giving occupants time to evacuate and allowing responders to control the fire.
Do Not Prop Fire Doors Open: Propping open a fire door compromises the fire barrier, allowing flames and toxic smoke to spread rapidly through a facility. Keeping fire doors closed can save entire sections of a building.