How to Respond in the Event of an On-Campus Explosion or Fire
- In the case of a fire, immediately dial 7-911 from a campus land-line phone or 803-777-9111 from a mobile phone.
- Leave the building as soon as possible and activate the closest fire alarm. Do not stop to retrieve personal possessions or make phone calls.
- If objects are falling around you, get under a sturdy table or desk until they stop falling, and quickly exit, watching where you step.
- If you are trapped in debris, do not light a match. Don not move or kick up dust. Cover your mouth with a handkerchief or clothing. Rhythmically tap on a pipe or wall so rescuers can hear where you are. Shout only as a last resort.
- In the case of a fire, know where all the fire exits, fire extinguishers and alarm systems are located.
- If a minor fire appears controllable, immediately contact the Columbia Fire Department (803-545-3700) and campus police. Then promptly locate a fire extinguisher and direct the charge of the extinguisher toward the base of the flame.
- For large fires that do not appear controllable, evacuate all rooms. Close doors to confine the fire and reduce oxygen. Do not lock doors. Notify the Columbia Police Department (803-252-2911) and campus police.
- Assist the disabled in exiting the building. Do not use elevators during a fire.
- Smoke is the greatest danger in a fire, so stay near the floor where the air will be less toxic.
- When approaching a closed door, use the back of your hand to feel the lower, middle, and upper parts of the door. Never use the palm of your hand or fingers to test for heat. If the door is not hot, open it slowly and ensure that fire or smoke is not blocking your escape route before continuing. If the door is hot, do not open it, but try to escape through a window. If you are on a high floor, hang a white or light colored cloth or rag outside the window to alert fire fighters of your location.
How Do I ...
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