Fighting
a Fire
It is not the responsibility of our students or employees to fight fires. However, if you are trained in using a fire extinguisher and are sure that there are no hazards from which you are not protected, you
may prevent further injury or damage by taking the following steps:
1. Select the proper fire extinguisher:
- For ordinary combustibles, such as paper or wood, use a pressurized water extinguisher, located in fire hose cabinets.
- For flammable liquids, use a CO2 extinguisher located in the corridors and near exit doors inside laboratories
- For electrical fires, cut the power source at the main electrical panel, if possible, and extinguish with a dry chemical or CO2 extinguisher.
- For combustible metals (sodium, potassium, etc.): Do not attempt to extinguish with an ordinary fire extinguisher. Use a metal x (dry chemical) extinguisher labeled "For Metal Fires Only".
2. Before entering an area that is on fire or contains burning material:
- Make sure that the fire does not produce toxic gases.
- Feel the closed door near the top. If the door is hot, DO NOT OPEN IT!
- If the door is cool, open it a crack to see if the fire is still confined and small. If not, close the door.
- If the fire is small and you elect to enter the room, keep yourself between the fire and the door.
- If the fire enlarges suddenly, exit the room and close the door.
- If the fire remains small, direct the contents of the appropriate extinguisher at the base of the fire.
FOR EMERGENCIES CALL 9-911
Departmental
Safety Regulations