If you encounter odor/smoke/fire/explosion: RACE

• Rescue — Persons in immediate danger, if possible. This includes yourself!
• Alarm — Pull the fire alarm and call 9-1-1.
• Contain — Fire and smoke by closing doors while leaving the building (especially stairwells).
• Evacuate —
  • Take ONLY important personal items (cell phone, ID, keys, medications, wallet, purse, etc.).
  • If the corridor is filled with smoke, stay low and crawl out.
  • Do not use the elevator.
  • Exit to a safe location.
  • Move away from the building at least 100 feet.
  • Attempt to determine if all occupants in your area have evacuated.
  • Do not re-enter the building.

If building evacuation is ordered or fire alarm sounds:

• Take ONLY important personal items (cell phone, ID, keys, medications, wallet, purse, etc.).
• Do not use the elevator, if possible.
• If requested, accompany and assist persons with disabilities.
  • If special assistance is needed, call 9-1-1 and report your location and situation. Ask others as they leave the building to inform public safety officials on site of your location and situation.
• Move quickly, but in an orderly manner out of the building. DO NOT PUSH OR SHOVE.
• Once out of the building, move at least 100 feet from the structure or as instructed by public safety officials.

If confined or trapped:

• Call 9-1-1 and report your location and situation.
• Feel door. If hot, DO NOT open.
• Keep doors and windows closed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke.
• Stuff towels under the door to keep out smoke.
• Attract attention to your position if possible.
• If you have to move, stay close to the floor and crawl.

Source: UF Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S)

Resources:

EH&S – Fire Alarm/Building Evacuation Information

Training:

Fire Safety Training

Version Date: September 2021