Building Evacuation Procedure

A building evacuation may be required because of a fire, hazardous-material release, gas leak, utility failure, structural concern, or other emergency. These procedures apply to all students, employees, visitors, and contractors on campus.

Be Prepared

Before an emergency:

Know at least two ways to exit the buildings you regularly use.
Locate the nearest fire alarm pull stations, stairways, and emergency exits.
Know your building’s designated outdoor assembly area.
Keep hallways, stairways, doorways, and exits clear.
Participate in evacuation drills and become familiar with emergency alarms and instructions.
Do not use elevators during an evacuation unless specifically directed to do so by emergency responders.

Individuals who may need assistance during an evacuation should develop an emergency evacuation plan in advance. Students should contact Access Resources, and employees should contact Human Resources. Residential students may also consult Residential Education. Campus Safety can assist with building-specific evacuation planning.

If You Discover an Emergency

If you discover fire, smoke, or another condition requiring immediate evacuation:

Activate the nearest fire alarm, when appropriate.
Call 9-1-1 and notify Campus Safety once you are in a safe location.
Warn others in the immediate area as you leave.
Evacuate using the nearest safe exit.
Close doors behind you, when possible, to help contain fire and smoke.
Do not delay your evacuation to gather personal belongings.

Never enter an area containing smoke, fire, hazardous materials, or another apparent danger.

When an Alarm Sounds or an Evacuation Is Ordered

Stop what you are doing and evacuate immediately.
Follow illuminated exit signs and use the nearest safe stairway or exit.
Walk quickly and remain calm. Do not run or push.
Do not use elevators.
Assist others when it is safe and you are able to do so.
Follow instructions from Campus Safety, Building Safety Coordinators, faculty, staff, and emergency responders.
Do not attempt to move through smoke or another hazardous area. Use an alternate exit when available.
If you know that someone has been unable to evacuate, report the person’s location to Campus Safety or emergency responders after reaching safety. Do not attempt a rescue that would place you or others in danger.

After Leaving the Building

Move directly to the building’s designated assembly area or another location identified by emergency personnel.
Stay clear of entrances, roads, fire lanes, hydrants, and emergency vehicles.
Remain with your class, department, residence hall, group, or event when possible.
Report anyone believed to be missing and provide their last known location.
Do not leave the assembly area unless instructed or unless remaining there would be unsafe.
Do not re-enter the building until Campus Safety or emergency responders announce that it is safe.

The silencing of an alarm does not mean that the building is safe to re-enter.

If You Cannot Evacuate

If smoke, fire, debris, or another hazard prevents you from leaving:

Move to a room or other location away from the hazard.
Close the door and seal openings around it when possible.
Call 9-1-1 and Campus Safety and provide your building, floor, room number, and condition.
Signal your location from a window when possible.
Remain in place until emergency responders reach you or provide other instructions.

Fire Extinguisher Use

No community member is required or expected to fight a fire. The first priorities are to activate the alarm, report the emergency, and evacuate.

Only individuals who have received appropriate training should consider using a portable fire extinguisher, and only when the fire is very small and in its beginning stage, the correct extinguisher is available, and a clear escape route remains behind them. When there is any doubt, evacuate immediately and leave firefighting to emergency responders.

Please see Evacuation for People with Disabilities.