Fire and Emergency Procedures

Fire Emergency

Upon discovering smoke or fire:

1. Activate the building fire alarm immediately.
2. Call 911 or ensure that someone has already notified the fire department.
3. Follow the building evacuation procedures and instructions from emergency responders and school/building administrators.

Depending on your assigned responsibilities, you may be asked to:

• Assist students with evacuation.
• Assist staff members, visitors, or individuals requiring assistance during evacuation.
• Help account for students, staff, and visitors at the designated assembly area.

The safety of students, staff, and visitors is the highest priority. Employees are not expected to fight fires.

Portable Fire Extinguishers

Attempt to use a portable fire extinguisher only if all of the following conditions are met:

• The fire alarm has been activated.
• Evacuation is already underway.
• You have received training in the proper use of portable fire extinguishers.
• The fire is small, contained, not spreading, and you have a safe escape route at all times.

If these conditions are met, use the PASS method:

1. P – Pull the pin.
2. A – Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
3. S – Squeeze the handle.
4. S – Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the fire.

Severe Weather

When severe weather threatens or a warning is issued:

• Immediately move to the nearest building if you are outdoors.
• Stay away from windows, glass doors, skylights, and other exterior openings.
• Move to a reinforced interior area on the lowest level of the building whenever possible.

Preferred shelter locations include:

• Interior bathrooms
• First-floor interior stairwells
• Basements
• Vaults
• Interior storage rooms or closets
• Other designated severe weather shelter areas identified in the building Emergency Management Plan

Remain in the shelter area until an All Clear is announced or emergency officials provide further instructions.

Other Emergencies

For emergencies such as a bomb threat, hazardous materials incident, gas leak, medical emergency, security concern, or other emergency situation:

• Immediately notify the building administrator or supervisor. If a building administrator is unavailable, contact the Central Office.
• Follow the procedures outlined in the building's Emergency Management Plan and any directions provided by emergency responders or administrators.

Be prepared to provide the following information:

• The nature of the emergency.
• The exact location of the incident.
• Where the incident originated, if known.
• Who is involved.
• Whether anyone is injured or in immediate danger.
• Any immediate hazards or safety concerns.

Employees should remain calm, avoid placing themselves at unnecessary risk, and follow established emergency procedures until the incident has been resolved.

For questions or more information regarding Emergency Procedures, contact the Questar III Health and Safety Office.