Be Prepared in Case of Fire
Prepare for Possible Fires by Learning the Location of:
- Alarms and fire extinguishers in the buildings you’re in and how to use them. Read Fire Extinguisher Operation to learn how to operate a fire extinguisher.
- Exit routes of the buildings you frequent. Keep all exit routes free of obstructions during your activities.
If a Fire is Suspected or Discovered:
- Call 911. Never attempt to fight a fire alone. Give the operator as much information as possible, including the building name, room number, and other details about the fire’s location.
- Activate a fire alarm. If there is no alarm, warn other occupants by knocking on doors and shouting a warning.
When Escaping a Fire:
- Find the nearest exit. Do not use elevators. If the nearest exit is blocked by fire, heat, or smoke, go to the next closest exit.
- Feel the door and doorknob before opening any doors. If either is hot, do not open the door.
- If heat or heavy smoke is present, close the door and stay in the room. If you are trapped, call 911 and give your location. Hang an object out of a window to attract attention.
- Stay down near the floor if there is smoke in your room or in the corridors.
- Close doors behind you as you exit the building to help keep the fire from spreading.
If Your Clothing Is on Fire:
- Stop, Drop, and Roll. Stop what you’re doing, drop to the ground, and roll to smother out the flames. Flames can also be smothered with blankets or drenched with water.
- Seek medical attention for all burns and injuries.
Potential Fire Hazards at BYU-Idaho
Read Workplace Fire Hazards to learn about potential fire hazards in specific locations on campus.
Fire Safety at Home
Cooking
Cooking is the leading cause of home fires in the United States, starting almost half of all fires. Never leave the stovetop unattended and turn off all appliances after you finish using them.
Exercise caution when cooking or frying with oil or grease. Always keep clothing and other flammable materials away from flames.
Exercise caution when cooking or frying with oil or grease. Always keep clothing and other flammable materials away from flames.
Heating
Leave at least three feet of clearance around space heaters.
Candles
Be vigilant when using candles. Never leave an open flame unattended, and keep candles far from flammable items. Extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to sleep. If renting, verify whether candles are approved in your housing contract.
Electrical safety
Check and replace electrical cords if they are damaged. Make sure electronics such as hairdryers and curling wands are turned off and unplugged when not in use.
Smoke Detectors
Check that your apartment has smoke detectors in every room where people sleep and outside each sleeping area.
Fire Extinguishers
Make sure your extinguisher is up-to-date and working properly. Your fire extinguisher may need recharging, especially if it's been used.
Be Aware of Building Safety
Look out for fire risks in the common areas of your building. Although you can't control what others do in their apartments, notify management if you spot anything that looks dangerous, such as missing fire extinguishers or smoke detectors that beep at random.