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Fire / Explosion

If there is a fire, explosion or smoke in your area:

  • Activate the fire alarm system on your way out of the building.
  • Leave your belongings behind.
  • If it is safe to do so, stabilize lab procedures, turn off stoves and ovens, and unplug or disable any device that could make a dangerous situation even worse.
  • Leave the building via the nearest exit.
  • Warn others as you leave.  Assist any individual who requires assistance.
  • Do not use elevators.
  • Feel doors before opening; if the door is hot, do not open it.
  • To move through a smoke-clouded area, drop to your knees and crawl to the nearest evacuation exit.
  • Close (but do not lock) doors and windows as you leave, if safe to do so.
  • Call 911 once outside.
  • Remain at least five hundred (500) feet outside of the building and await further instructions.
  • Keep roadways open and beware of approaching emergency vehicles.
  • Notify emergency responders of anyone trapped, especially anyone with a physical disability who cannot evacuate.
  • Do not go back in the building for any reason until the SUNO Police Department deems it safe to re-enter.


If you are trapped:

  • Keep the doors closed and place a cloth under them to keep out smoke.
  • If a window is available, place an article of clothing outside the window as a marker for emergency personnel.
  • If no window is available, stay near the floor where the air may be less smoky.
  • Shout at regular intervals to alert emergency personnel of your location.