Fire

Smoke is the greatest danger in a fire, so as you evacuate or if you are trapped always stay near the floor where the air is less toxic. STAY LOW.

A fire may include visible flames or strong odors of burning. If either is detected, building occupants should walk not run to the nearest exit. It is not necessary to exit the same way you entered.

Do the following:

If a fire is in the incipient stage (smoldering or faint or light smoke) and you feel comfortable and have been trained to use a fire extinguisher, do so then call the Department of Public Safety when the fire is out. NEVER attempt to fight a structural fire. If it is not possible to extinguish the fire immediately, follow the steps below.

• Immediately exit the building.
• Move safely away from the building, approximately 200 feet. Do not block the exits. Leave room for those still in the building to exit safely.
• If you know the location of smoke or fire or you know the cause of the alarm notify the Department of Public Safety at X-6911 or X-6001 once you are safely out of the building.
• If you are not able to leave the building seek refuge. The best area of refuge is a totally enclosed room with a telephone and window. Some survival rules for sheltering in place are to use towels or clothing to block openings around doors or vents where smoke might enter. Put a wet cloth over your mouth or nose. Place a signal in the window. The signal can be anything that will call attention to your location. Wave a light or curtains or anything else that will draw attention. If smoke enters your area stay low to breathe the best air.
• It is important to remain orderly once outside. In the event of inclement weather or a situation that prohibits occupants from returning to the building, special instructions will be given to direct people to designated areas.

Instructions will be given when it is safe to return to the building.