Welcome to Fire Safety
Evacuation Plans
Emergency Procedures
In Case of Fire
Fire Prevention
Campus Fire Safety Systems
Your Guide to Safe Dorm Decor
Fire Safety Programs, Permits, and Documents
Fire Drills
Fire Safety Training
FAQs

Welcome to Fire Safety
 

West Chester University is committed to the health and safety of our entire community, ensuring that everyone has a safe place to live, learn, and work. When it comes to fire safety, our primary goal is prevention—because personal awareness and correct action in an emergency are both essential.

About Us

 Environmental Health and Safety is responsible for overseeing fire and life safety on campus. Our mission is to protect our community by:

    • Conducting routine inspections and fire evacuation drills.
    • Maintaining fire detection and suppression systems.
    • Developing fire prevention policies and providing safety training.
    • Conducting incident investigations and providing professional risk analysis.

On this site, you'll find useful information to help you recognize fire hazards, respond properly in an emergency, and learn how to contribute to a safer campus for everyone.

New to Campus? Start Here!

If you're new to the West Chester University community, this short video is a great place to start. It covers the basic fire safety information you need to know.

Fire Safetfy at WCU

Emergency Procedures

General Evacuation Procedures

A Fire Alarm is an Emergency!  A fire alarm is not a drill or a test—it is a signal to evacuate the building immediately. Your safety is the top priority.

When a fire alarm sounds, all occupants must evacuate the building immediately. Here are the steps to follow:

    • Evacuate Immediately: Do not hesitate. A fire alarm signals a potential emergency that requires a prompt response.
    • Use the Closest Exit: Use the nearest available emergency exit. Do not try to find the main entrance or an exit you are more familiar with.
    • Proceed Calmly and Orderly: Walk, do not run. Remaining calm and orderly helps ensure a safe and efficient evacuation for everyone.
    • Bring Only Essential Belongings: Take only what is absolutely necessary (e.g., keys, wallet, phone). Leave all other items behind to facilitate a swift exit.
    • Close Doors Behind You: Close doors as you exit a room. This simple action can help contain smoke and fire, slowing its spread.
    • Assist Others When Possible: If you encounter someone who needs assistance, help them if you are able. If you cannot, or if an individual refuses to evacuate, continue your evacuation and notify a Public Safety officer of their location immediately.
    • Proceed to Your Designated Meeting Location: Once outside, move directly to your designated meeting location. This allows for accurate accountability and helps emergency responders confirm everyone is safe.
    • Wait for the "All Clear": Do not re-enter the building for any reason until you are instructed that it is safe to do so by a Public Safety officer or authorized university personnel. 

Evacuation Procedures for Persons Needing Assistance

Please familiarize yourself with the emergency evacuation procedures for all buildings you use on campus.

Proactive Planning with Environmental Health and Safety (EHS): If you are unable to evacuate without using the elevator, we encourage you to contact Environmental Health and Safety to develop a personalized emergency evacuation plan. Our team consists of building and evacuation experts who can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs and the unique layout of campus buildings. We also have premade plan templates available at the top of our website to help you get started.

Emergency Evacuation Procedures If You Are Unable to Evacuate Without Using the Elevator

In the event of an emergency, if you are unable to evacuate on your own, please follow these instructions:

    • DO NOT USE THE ELEVATOR. Elevators are unsafe during a fire or other emergency and should only be used by authorized personnel.
    • Move to the nearest "Area of Rescue Assistance," which includes enclosed or exterior stairwells, and remain there.
    • Ensure all stairwell doors are closed behind you. Open doors can allow smoke and fire into the stairwell, compromising this safe area.
    • The person needing assistance should remain in the stairwell. Do not attempt to carry anyone up or down the stairs; this can be dangerous and impede evacuation efforts.
    • Immediately call Public Safety at 610-436-3311.
      • Clearly state your exact location (e.g., building, floor, and stair number).
      • Provide a callback number so they can contact you with updates.
    • Stay in your location until emergency personnel have assisted you or the building has been declared "All Clear."

Create Your Personal Emergency Evacuation Checklist

Use this simple guide to build your own personal emergency evacuation plan. It’s easy to do and it's a great way to prepare yourself and your friends for an emergency.

Step 1: Get to Know Your Surroundings

    • Find Your Escape Routes. Get familiar with the path to fire exits in every building you use regularly.
    • Find at least two ways to get out. One path might be blocked, so you'll need a backup.
    • Locate Safe Spots. Find a safe place to go if you can't use the stairs. These are often called "Areas of Rescue Assistance" or are located in enclosed stairwells. Look for them on your floor.
    • Know Your Building's Address. Memorize your building and room numbers for your dorm and your most-used classrooms. In an emergency, every second counts, and giving a precise location to 911 or Public Safety is very important.

Step 2: Make It Personal

    • Consider Your Equipment. If you use any personal equipment (like a wheelchair, crutches, or medical device), think about what you will need to bring with you or what help you will need to get it to safety.
    • Find Your Buddy. Ask a friend or roommate to be your "emergency buddy." Share your plan with them and agree to check on each other if an alarm goes off. Make sure they know where to report your location if they can get out and you can't.
    • Practice Your Plan. Mentally follow your escape route. Do it a few times until it feels natural. This mental practice can make a huge difference in a real emergency.

If at any point you get stuck or feel like you need more personalized help, that’s exactly what our office is here for. Please contact us and we can help you create a detailed plan tailored to your specific needs and the buildings you use. Our email is EHS@WCUPA.edu

 
Guidance for Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

 During an Emergency

Get your ESA and exit the home as quickly as possible, but if it takes too long to locate or secure them, leave. You should never delay escape or endanger yourself or your roommates. Go to your meeting area and inform staff/ First Responders that your ESA is still inside. First Responders will decide whether your ESA is safe where they are and will evacuate them as necessary. 

    • Grab leashes and carriers on your way out.  Outside, it may be chaotic and that could cause your ESA to try to escape to a calmer, safe area.
    • If you were not home during the emergency, DO NOT ENTER THE BUILDING. Go to your meeting area and inform staff/ First Responders that your ESA is still inside. First Responders will decide whether the ESA is safe where they are and will evacuate them as necessary. 
      • Make sure your ESA is registered for your room or suite so First Responders will know where to expect an ESA if you’re not home. 

 Emotional Support Animal Emergency Preparedness Planning

Preparing for an Emergency 

    • Identify. Make sure your ESA is wearing identification tags with your contact information on them at all times. If possible, get them microchipped. 
      • Keep their vaccinations up to date.
    • Escape Plan. Every residence is different, but make sure you have two ways out and know your building’s designated meeting place.
    • Know Your Role. Maybe it’s just you and the ESA, but if you’ve got roommates, not everyone should be scrambling for the dog. Assign roles: one of you is on ESA duty, while the other grabs important items like keys or jackets.
    • Leash and Carrier. Getting everyone outside will be important, but with the likely panic and noise, you’ll need these. Make sure they’re located along the planned fire escape route and easy to remove in an emergency.
    • Know the Hideaways. When your four-legged friend panics, where do they hide? It’s critical that you know the usual places they consider “safe” when there’s noise, or they hurt a paw, etc. You might not be worried about it now if they have a “cute habit” of disappearing and reemerging later, but in a crisis that’s not a good secret to let stand.
    • Practice. It is important that the ESA is included in your fire drills. Run your own scenario where you find them and get them out of the building, so they get used to the idea. They’ll be more likely to do so in the event of a fire.
      • You can train your ESA to respond to alarms by going to the door. Periodically play recorded fire alarm for your building, and then carry your cats/walk dogs to whatever escape door you would use and give them treats.
        • Find the audio samples in the "Campus Fire Safety Systems" section of this website.
      • If you randomly do this, after a while they will head to the door on their own. Make sure you continually reinforce this with periodic tests. Now if there is ever a fire, you won't have to be afraid for them, because they'll zip to the door for their treats, and you can crate/leash and evacuate.
      • The University performs 2 mandatory drills a semester and they are unannounced because it is meant to assess your response to an emergency. Remember emergencies will occur at any time and you should always have an escape plan. 

In Case of Fire

If you discover smoke or flame, immediately initiate the following actions:

    • Activate the fire alarm system by pulling a manual pull station or verbally notify the building’s occupants of the fire if the alarm system is not functioning.
    • Evacuate from the building and report to the Designated Meeting Location and await further instruction from a Public Safety representative.
    • Even if the fire alarm system has already been activated, (at safe distance from the fire) contact the Public Safety Department at 610-436-3311 to report the fire.
    • Occupants that cannot evacuate the building without assistance should proceed to the closest Area of Rescue Assistance or enclosed stairwell if possible
      • After arriving at the Area of rescue Assistance or enclosed stairwell, contact Public Safety at (610) 436-3311 to advise them of your location
      • If getting to the Area of Rescue Assistance is not possible, stay in your room with the door closed. Contact Public Safety at (610) 436-3311 and let the dispatcher know your location

Fire Prevention

The most important part of fire prevention is staying aware of your surroundings. A fire needs three things to start: fuel (like paper or clothes), oxygen, and an ignition source (like a hot stove or faulty wiring). By understanding this, you can keep these three things separated and prevent a fire from ever starting.

Here are some simple steps to follow:

    • Look for common fire causes: Be aware of things like overloaded outlets, unattended cooking, and misused electronics, which are the most frequent causes of fires on college campuses. If you notice a burning smell or a cord that feels hot, it could be a warning sign.
    • Know your building: Take a moment to learn where the fire alarms, fire extinguishers, and emergency exits are in every building you use. Knowing their location ahead of time can make a big difference in an emergency.
    • Follow the rules: Fire safety rules are in place for a reason—to keep everyone safe. Always follow them, and if you see something that looks unsafe, report it to staff right away.

Key Fire Hazards

These are the most common things that cause fires on a college campus. By understanding them, you can help prevent a fire from ever starting.

Cooking Safety

Cooking is a top cause of fires in residence halls. Stay safe by following these simple rules:

    • Never leave cooking unattended. If you have to step away, turn off the stove or microwave first.
    • Keep a clean stovetop. Make sure the area around the stove is clear of anything that could catch fire, like paper towels or food wrappers.
    • Know your fire extinguisher. Know where it's located in your building and how to use it, especially for grease fires.
    • Use the overhead fan. It helps pull steam and smoke out of the kitchen so they don't set off a fire alarm.

Electrical Safety

With so many devices, it's easy to overload a circuit. To prevent an electrical fire, remember this:

    • Use only UL-listed surge protectors with a built-in circuit breaker or fuse. These are the only safe way to add more outlets.
    • DON'T use extension cords. They are prohibited in residence halls because they can be a fire hazard.
    • Plug in high-wattage appliances (like microwaves and mini-fridges) directly into the wall. Never plug them into a power strip.
    • Look for warning signs. If an outlet or switch feels hot, you smell burning plastic, or a circuit breaker trips often, it could be a sign of a serious problem. Report it to staff immediately.

Storage and Housekeeping

 Poor storage and clutter are a leading cause of fires. Keeping your space organized and clean is one of the easiest ways to prevent an emergency and ensure a safe evacuation route.

Follow These Storage Rules:

    •  Use secure shelving and designated storage rooms.
    • Keep all items at least 18 inches away from fire sprinklers to ensure they can operate properly.
    • Never stack items within two feet of the ceiling.
    • Do not store anything in hallways, stairwells, or doorways, as this blocks an exit path.
    • Keep items out of boiler rooms, mechanical rooms, and electrical equipment rooms.
    • Store materials only in approved areas; avoid concealed spaces like attics or under-floor spaces unless they are protected by a fire sprinkler system.

Preventing False Alarms

A false alarm is a huge disruption for everyone. Help us prevent them by being mindful of these common triggers:

    • Steam and vapors: Steam from a hot shower or a pot on the stove can activate a smoke alarm. Use exhaust fans and keep bathroom doors closed when showering.
    • Aerosol sprays: Hairspray, deodorant, and other aerosols can trigger an alarm. Use them in a well-ventilated area, away from detectors.
    • Don't tamper with alarms. Never cover or remove a smoke detector. It's against the law and puts everyone in the building at risk. 

Prohibited Items in all Buildings

These items are never allowed in campus buildings because they are major fire risks. Using them is a violation of university policy and puts everyone in danger.

    • Open-flame devices: This includes candles, incense, wax warmers/burners, and torch lamps.
    • Halogen lights: These bulbs get extremely hot and can easily ignite curtains, bedding, or other flammable materials.
    • Cooking devices without an automatic shutoff: This includes appliances that don't turn off on their own, as they can overheat and start a fire.
    • Vaping Devices: Vaping devices are prohibited from being used, charged, or stored in campus buildings. The lithium-ion batteries in these devices can overheat and cause fires or explosions.
    • Micro-mobility Devices: This includes e-scooters, e-bikes, and hoverboards. The use, charging, or storage of these devices is prohibited in campus buildings due to the serious fire risk posed by their lithium-ion batteries.
    • Combustible items: Never use or store items like gasoline, kerosene, or other flammable liquids.
    • Grills: The use or storage of charcoal, propane, or other types of grills is strictly prohibited inside and within 15 feet of campus buildings.
    • Refrigerators over 3.6 cubic feet: Oversized refrigerators can overload circuits and are not permitted.
    • Microwaves over 1000 Watts or .7 cubic feet: Microwaves that exceed these limits can also overload electrical circuits..
    • Smoke/Fog Machines: These devices can trigger a fire alarm, causing a full building evacuation.

Prohibited Items in all non-kitchen dorm units

We know how tempting it is to have your own kitchen gadgets right in your room! But for everyone's safety, these appliances aren't allowed in non-kitchen dorm units. They can get incredibly hot and create a fire risk in a small space, plus they're a quick way to set off the fire alarm and send the whole building running outside.

    • Toasters
    • Toaster Ovens
    • Instant Cookers (like Instant pots)
    • Countertop Grills such as panini makers, George Foreman grills, sandwich makers
    • Electric Skillets
    • Hot Plates
    • Kettles
      • Electric Kettles are permissable
    • Waffle Irons
    • Popcorn Poppers
    • Convection Ovens, Air Fryers, and Oil Fryers
    • Any items with an exposed heat producing source or element (i.e. immersion coil)

If you need a stove or other cooking appliances, you can use the community kitchen located on the first floor of your building.

Smoking and Vaping 

For the safety of everyone in the university community, smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited inside all buildings, including residence halls, academic buildings, and all indoor spaces.

Smoking is only permitted outdoors in designated smoking areas. When using these areas, you must be at least 25 feet away from any building door, window, or air intake to prevent smoke from entering the building.

    • Remember: Improperly extinguished smoking materials, like cigarettes, are a major cause of fires. Always dispose of them in a designated outside receptacle.

       

Campus Fire Safety Systems

This section provides an overview of the essential fire safety systems that protect our campus buildings. From fire alarms and sprinklers to extinguishers and clear exit paths, you'll learn how these systems work together and what you can do to contribute to a safe community.

Exits and Corridors

In an emergency, clear corridors and stairwells are your lifeline. Your safety and the safety of everyone in the building depend on them.

    • Fire Doors: These doors are designed to contain fire and smoke. Never prop them open—they must be kept closed at all times.
    • Lighted Signs: Follow the illuminated EXIT signs to find your way out. They are on emergency power and will work even if the lights go out.
    • Keep a Clear Path: Do not place furniture, personal items, or anything else in corridors, stairwells, or doorways. Every exit path must be completely clear of obstructions.

If you notice a damaged fire door or a sign that isn't lit, report it to Facilities right away.

Fire Alarm Systems 

For the safety of our campus community, every occupied building at West Chester University has a fire alarm system that's monitored by the Department of Public Safety (DPS).

The system works in three simple steps:

    • Detection: Sensors, like smoke detectors and heat detectors, sense a potential fire.
    • Activation: The system's main panel receives the signal and instantly notifies DPS.
    • Notification: Alarms, horns, and strobe lights activate to alert everyone in the building to evacuate immediately.

When an alarm is activated in any building, DPS is instantly notified with the exact location. This allows them to quickly dispatch the West Chester University Police, Security, and the West Chester Fire Department to the scene.

Hear Your Alarm 

A fire alarm is an immediate call to action, and knowing what to expect can help you respond calmly and quickly. This resource is designed to help all residents become familiar with the specific sounds of the fire alarms in their building. Below you will find audio samples for both the building-wide alarm and the in-room alarm for each of our residential buildings.

Allegheny Hall

Brandywine Hall

Commonwealth Hall

Goshen Hall

Killinger Hall

Schmidt Hall

Tyson Hall

University Hall

Matlack Court Temp Student Residence

College Arms Apts

South Campus Apts

East Village Apts

Village 182-188 Apts

Village 190-193 Apts

 

Fire Sprinkler Systems

Fire sprinklers are a critical part of a fire safety system, designed to detect and extinguish a fire at its source, providing a vital layer of protection.

How They Work:  Sprinkler heads are connected to pipes filled with pressurized water. When the heat from a fire reaches a specific temperature, it activates a single sprinkler head, releasing water directly onto the fire.

Connected to Alarms:  When water flows through the sprinkler pipes, it triggers a flow switch that activates the building's fire alarm system, alerting everyone to evacuate.
 

All residential buildings at West Chester University are fully equipped with fire sprinkler systems. Additionally, about one-third of our academic buildings have sprinkler systems.

 Fire Extinguishers

Portable fire extinguishers are an important part of our campus fire safety system. You'll find them located every 75 feet in most buildings, ready for use on small, contained fires.

It is critical to remember that your first priority is always to evacuate the building immediately when the fire alarm sounds.

You are not expected to use a fire extinguisher. These devices are available for use by trained professionals, or for those who have received hands-on training and feel capable of using them safely.

If you are interested in receiving fire extinguisher training, please contact Environmental Health and Safety for more information.

Your Guide to Safe Dorm Decor

 We love to see how creative you get making your dorm room feel like home! However, it's important that your decorations are both creative and safe. Remember, your room is not just your personal space; it's part of a shared building and along the emergency escape route for everyone.

Please keep the following guidelines in mind when decorating:

    • Wall & Ceiling Decor: No more than 25 percent of any all or surface may be covered. To ensure fire safety, blankets, tapestries, and posters must not be hung over windows or from the ceiling. Additionally, nothing may be suspended from or attached to the ceiling or to sprinkler and heat pipes.
    • Door Decor:  When decorating, you must ensure it remains fully functional and unobstructed.
      • Do not cover more than 25 percent of the door's surface.
      • Your room number, peephole, and all door hardware must remain completely unobstructed and accessible.
      • Do not drill, nail, or put holes into doors. This can damage the fire-rated core and reduce the door's ability to protect you from fire and smoke.
    • Highly Flammable Materials: Some items are highly combustible and are not permitted in residential buildings. This includes hay bales, twigs, live cut evergreens, cotton batting, and crepe paper.
    • Electrical Safety: Never run electrical cords or decorative lights through doorways. This can damage the cords and create a fire hazard.
    • Prohibited Equipment: Do not use devices that can activate a fire alarm, such as smoke or fog machines.
    • Clearance: Furniture and stored items must remain at least 18 inches below the ceiling and sprinkler heads at all times.

By staying within these guidelines, you can make your space your own while helping to keep our community safe.

Fire Drills

In compliance with state regulations, fire drills are conducted at varying times  in all residence halls and apartments. The participation of ALL occupants of on-campus housing is required. Please follow these procedures:

    • Become familiar with the fire exits nearest your room and the evacuation plans posted on each floor of your building. Generally speaking, you should use the closest fire exit to your room, but you should also be aware of a secondary exit in the event your primary exit becomes unusable.
      • Residence Hall occupants should use the outer stair exits as their primary exits when the fire alarm is active.  This will reduce overcrowding in the center stairs.
    • When evacuating the building, only take essential belongings. This includes items such as keys, RamNetID, wallets, purses, coats, medications, etc. 
    • When evacuating the building, remember to turn off lights and close doors to rooms as you leave.
    • Exit the building swiftly. Do not run, but walk briskly to the nearest exit. Remain calm.
    • After exiting the building, report to your pre-designated meeting location (determined at the beginning of each school year). Apartment residents cannot remain in any external stairwells or complex courtyards.
    • DO NOT leave your meeting location or re-enter your residence hall unless instructed to do so by university officials.
    • DO NOT use the elevators.

Fire Safety Training

Staying prepared for an emergency is an important part of personal safety. The Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) team offers free fire safety training for all students and staff.

We offer the following classes:

    • General Fire Safety: This class provides a broad overview of fire prevention and emergency response. Classes are held every Tuesday at 11 a.m.
    • Fire Extinguisher Training: This hands-on session teaches you the proper and safe use of a portable fire extinguisher. Classes are held every Thursday at 11 a.m.

To register for a class or to request a private session for your group or department, please email bemmons@wcupa.edu  If you have additional questions, you can contact the Office of Fire Safety at 610-436-3315.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What Fire Safety Measures Are In Place In The Residence Life Buildings?

Every residence facility is monitored by a Simplex 4100ES addressable fire alarm system, which reports all system conditions to the Department of Public Safety. Smoke detectors are a part of the fire alarm system, with smoke detectors and a sounder bases in each sleeping room. The system also includes strobe light units to notify students who are hearing impaired. An alarm prompts immediate evacuation of the building. The system also self-tests for tampering and reduces the chance for false alarms. Emergency generators are provided for backup lighting, which also provides backup power to the fire alarm system.  Battery backup is also a part of the fire alarm system, assuring these systems will function even in a long-term power outage. All residence halls and apartments are equipped with fire sprinkler systems. Fire extinguishers are located in all campus buildings and residence halls and are inspected monthly. Fire hydrants are located outside each residence hall. Environmental Health and Safety conducts monthly building inspections of every campus facility.

Fire drills are conducted a minimum of two times each semester in all residence halls. Students who fail to evacuate as required are referred to the university judicial system.

Allegheny Hall, Brandywine Hall, Commonwealth Hall, University Hall, and Village apartment complexes are owned, controlled and maintained by University Student Housing (USH).  They are all equipped with Simplex 4100ES addressable fire alarm systems, which report all system conditions to the Department of Public Safety. The system includes strobe light units to notify students who are hearing impaired. An alarm prompts immediate evacuation of the building. All USH properties are equipped with fire sprinkler systems and fire extinguishers. 

When should I pull the fire alarm?

  • If you see or smell smoke or see a fire in a building, you should pull the fire alarm. As you are evacuating pull the nearest alarm. This will send a signal to the fire alarm panel indicating that area and allowing the first responders to more efficiently find that area. Once safely outside of the building, call Public Safety 610-436-3311 and report the conditions you found. 

When can you use an Emergency Exit? 

  • Anytime when conditions inside pose a threat to the health and safety and leaving the facility is safer than remaining inside of it. The Fire Alarm actively sounding is considered an Emergency and you should leave the through the nearest exit.

What is delayed egress hardware?

  • Delayed egress hardware (CHEXIT) prevents a door from being opened from the egress side, usually for a period of 15 seconds. This type of device is often used to prevent theft or elopement, while maintaining life safety. The delayed egress hardware (CHEXIT) can be integrated into a buildings fire alarm system and will release immediately when an alarm condition exists. 
  • To operate Delayed egress hardware (CHEXIT) when the fire alarm is not active: PUSH UNTIL DOOR ALARM SOUNDS. DOOR CAN BE OPENED IN 15 SECONDS.

What are the most common causes of fire alarms? 

  • Cooking: Most often food is left unattended which causes the food to burn. All cooking must be attended whether if it’s being done on a stove, in an oven or in a microwave. Do not use high flames when cooking as it caused food to burn. Be aware of smoke conditions and make sure exhaust fans are on and windows are open. Check oven before turning on, as left overs or a dirty oven can create a smoke condition. Electric steam kettles are another source of fire alarms, do not use in your room and do not operate under a smoke detector.
  • Hair care equipment: Hair curlers, hair dryers, hair straighteners and even hair spray are the second most common cause of alarms. These items produce hot steam, burning odors, blow dust, and create vapors that can activate an alarm. When using these devices, look up and make sure you are not operating under a smoke detector.
  • Electrical fires: Many fires occur due to overloading electrical outlets and circuits. Only use the proper UL rated surge protectors. Do not use extension cords. Plug refrigerators, AC units and other large electrical appliances directly into an outlet. Turn off all appliances when finished using. Do not place any electrical equipment near water.

What type of holiday decorations are allowed in University facilities?

  • The University does not allow natural vegetation, such as trees, wreaths, and hay bales. All lighting and other electrical equipment must be UL listed and in good working condition. No items are to be hung from the ceiling in corridors. Exit signs, emergency lighting, extinguishers and sprinkler heads must remain visible and accessible. Lit candles are also prohibited.

Why can’t I prop open our stairwell door?

  • Stairwell doors are designed to be in the closed position. Stairwell doors provided a smoke and fire barrier. The stairwell door has a fire rating which protects the stairwell, as long as the doors are shut. The stairwell will act like a chimney if smoke enters, allowing the smoke to travel vertically to the upper floor. At no time should wooden chocks, brick, or other items be used to prop open a stairwell door.

Is it okay to leave my room door chocked open?

  • No. All room and stairway doors should never be chocked or held open.  Open doors allow fire to spread rapidly.  Doors must be kept closed to confine a fire so occupants can get out safety.

What are Fire Doors and what do they do?

  • Fire doors are a critical part of the buildings fire protection system. Fire doors, when properly closed, prevent the spread of smoke, heat and fire. Stairway exit doors are fire doors as well as doors to dormitory rooms. If a door self closes, consider it a fire door. It’s a violation of Fire Code to leave or choke fire doors open. One of the most important action to take if there is a fire in your building, is to close doors as you exit.

Is it okay to store some of my items in the hallway or stairwells?

  • No, storage is prohibited in hallways and stairwells. These areas must be kept clear at all times. In case of a fire or emergency, the corridors and stairways provide the means of egress to get out of the building safely.

Why do we have go to the Designated Meeting Area?

  • Walking to the Designated Meeting Area does a lot to improve safety for everyone.
  1. By clearing the exit discharge and getting away from the building you allow for everyone behind you space to exit. 
  2. It gets you gets away from collapse zones.
  3. It get you out of the way of First Responders and gives them to room to work.
    • Most extra wide sidewalks also serve as Emergency Access Roads for First Responders
  4. It allows for everyone to be accounted for in one location.

What will set a sprinkler head off?

  • Sprinkler heads are designed so that at a specific temperature the glass bulb of the sprinkler head with break and allow the water to flow out of the head. Although they are designed to go off for this reason, sometimes bumping them will break the glass as well. The glass component is fragile. When working near the heads, keep a close eye on moving around them. A simple bump could be enough to set them off. Unlike the movies, only the sprinkler head activated will go off, not an entire room.

What can I do to improve fire safety in my area?

  • There are simple things such as ensuring your corridors and exit are not obstructed, knowing your evacuation routes, knowing how to use the fire extinguishers and their location, and knowing the location of your nearest pull station, that can improve the safety of your work area. If you see a problem, say something to your supervisor or RA.