Safety & Security

Dothan Campus Fire Procedure Information

Purpose

To provide a procedure to maximize the security of Dothan Campus faculty, staff, students, and property in the event of a fire.

Definitions/Explanation

Fire: The active burning or smoldering of combustible material.
Fire Alarm: The continuously ringing of the alarm bell.

Procedure

Three things must be done in pursuit of fire prevention and control. First of all, it is necessary to do things to prevent fires from ever starting. Second, if a fire does start, it is necessary to notify fire authorities. The third thing to do in case of a fire is to react in whatever manner the situation dictates.

Fire Prevention

All employees must be alert to fire hazards and conditions which cause fires. Fire prevention is the elimination of all conditions that may lead to the cause of fires. Examples of the causes are: violation of "No Smoking" policies, carelessness, spontaneous combustion, and poor housekeeping.

Fire Notification

During normal operating hours (Monday through Thursday, 7:45 A.M.-5:30 P.M. and Friday, 8:00 A.M. through 12:00 noon), pull the local fire alarm pull station in the affected area and then dial 111 (Switchboard Operator). Provide the operator the exact location and nature of the fire. The Switchboard Operator will then notify the fire department by dialing "911" and giving them the location and other pertinent information about the type of fire, etc., which is known.

During the evening hours (Monday through Thursday, 5:30 P.M. to 10:30 P.M.) pull the local fire alarm pull station in the affected area and call University Police at 334 685-1185.

During other than normal operating hours, the University Police officer on duty will notify the fire department by dialing "911" and advise them of the location and nature of the fire. The officer will then stand by to direct the fire department to the fire and assist them if needed.

Reacting to the Fire

If a minor fire appears controllable, immediately report the fire as described above and return to the scene of the fire. If possible, attempt to extinguish the fire. Every precaution should be taken to avoid personal injury. Do not place yourself in a dangerous situation.

Upon encountering large fires that do not appear controllable, immediately report the fire as described and evacuate the building.

When a fire alarm is activated, the evacuation procedures as described in the Evacuation Procedures will be used.

The Fire Department suggests that handicapped persons should respond to the alarm as follows if they are not able to exit the building:

• Position themselves just inside the door of the fire exit stairs, prop the door open, and await Fire Department rescue.
• Have someone to notify the Switchboard Operator of their location. University Police have a stair chair and may evacuate the handicapped.
• The area shall be checked on every floor by the floor-by-floor by University Police and Campus Security.

NOTE: If you become trapped in a building during a fire and a window is available, place an article of clothing (shirt, coat, etc.,) outside the window as a marker for rescue crews. If there is no window, stay near the floor where the air will be less toxic. Shout at regular intervals to alert emergency crews of your location. DO NOT PANIC!

Fire Plan for Fort Rucker Location

This plan pertains to buildings 4502, 5012, 5020, and 5003.

Upon discovery of a fire, the individual will:

• Sound the alarm and move occupants to the parking lot.
• Notify the Fire Department (ext. 44), giving building number and location of the fire.
• Check to ensure that all windows and doors are closed and secure and post himself/herself where he can direct the fire fighters to the fire.

The use of a fire extinguisher is done by all occupants. Anyone is authorized to use a fire extinguisher to put out small fires or to help in removing occupants from the building.