Emergency Procedures (Fire): Carolina Alert

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GENERAL TIPS

Become familiar with emergency escape routes before an accident (i.e. note locations of stairwells and emergency doors)
If the fire is small, and you are properly trained, use a fire extinguisher to control the fire
If you smell or see smoke or fire, pull the nearest fire alarm
Evacuate the building via the stairs - DO NOT use the elevators
Exit quickly, only take essential items
If possible, close doors behind you as you exit to confine the heat or smoke
Feel the door with the back of your hand before opening it - DO NOT open a door that is hot

Cool door:

Open slowly and ensure fire or smoke is not blocking your route. If escape route is blocked, immediately shut the door and find an alternate escape route.
If route is clear leave immediately through the door and close it behind you. Be prepared to crawl, if necessary.

Call USC Police at 911

State the location of the fire
Stay on the phone until released by the dispatcher

Once outside:

Move to a clear area at least 500 feet away from the building
Keep the streets, fire lanes, fire hydrants, and all walkways clear
Return to the building only when emergency personnel allow

Staff members:

Bring class or building roster with you
Take inventory of all personnel evacuated from the building
Report missing persons (and their last known locations) to emergency personnel on scene

HOW TO USE A FIRE EXTINGUISHER

If the fire is small, and you are properly trained, use a fire extinguisher to control the fire
Always keep your back to the exit; never place the fire between you and the exit
Discharge the entire extinguisher on the base of the fire

Remember PASS
P = pull the pin
A = aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
S = squeeze the trigger
S = sweep the fire extinguisher from side to side

IF YOU CATCH ON FIRE:

DO NOT run
STOP, DROP, and ROLL

IF CAUGHT IN SMOKE:

Drop to hands and knees and crawl toward exit
Stay low
Hold your breath as much as possible
Breathe shallowly through nose; use a shirt or towel as a filter

IF FORCED TO ADVANCE THROUGH FLAMES:

Hold your breath
Move quickly
Cover your head and hair
Keep your head down and your eyes closed

IF YOU ARE TRAPPED AND CANNOT EVACUATE:

Wedge wet towels or other cloth materials along the bottom of the door to keep smoke out
Close any doors between you and the fire
If you are trapped and need air, break the window, but only as a last resort
Hang a towel or cloth material from the window (This signals firefighters that you are trapped)
If you are disabled and cannot use the stairs, get to the stairwell keeping doors closed; notify emergency personnel of your exact location (i.e. stairwell No. 1, 7th floor landing)

CAROLINA ALERT