Building Evacuation Procedures
The following procedures are to be followed in evacuating buildings. In many university departments an emergency evacuation of the building will present unique considerations (libraries, food service, childcare, Ramsey Center, etc.), which require additional employee duties. These should be addressed in individualized departmental procedures.
- When fire alarm signals are activated, occupants are to assume the emergency is real until they positively learn otherwise.
- Potential hazards should be secured, such as open flames, hot plates, laboratory ovens, small appliances, compressed gases, chemical containers etc.
- Evacuate the building, using the nearest stair tower to reach ground level.
- Room doors should be closed.
- Do not attempt to use elevators
- Use caution when approaching closed doors. If the door is hot, chances are a fire is on the other side. In this case, do not open the door. Instead, use an alternate means of exit or, if one is not available, find a room with an outside window for air and advise the fire department by any means available that you are unable to leave the building.
- If smoke is encountered, stay close to the floor. Crawl if necessary.
- Once outside the building, report to designated locations in accordance with department plans.