Safety Topic: General Fire Safety Rules
The following general fire safety rules apply to all Columbia University Medical Center building occupants:
-Remain calm at all times in an emergency.
-Keep all corridors and exit doors free of obstructions.
-Report immediately to the department of Facilities Management any electrical hazards such as sparks from fixtures and switches, blown fuses, overheated motors and shock tingle when electrical equipment is touched.
-Maintain a minimum of 18 inch clearance from top shelf storage.
-Never obstruct or use wedges to keep fire/smoke doors open.
-Know where the fire alarm pull boxes are in your work area.
-Know where the fire extinguishers are in your work area.
-Know the staircase nearest to your work area.
-Remember Smoking is prohibited on campus ...inside and outside!!
A fire/smoke condition is a RACE against time as fire spreads rapidly.
The letters of the key word R.A.C.E.serve as a guide for the appropriate action
to be taken in the event of a fire or smoke condition.
RESCUE: Rescue or remove all persons in immediate danger.
ALARM: Dial “911” and activate the nearest manual pull station (strategically located near exits).
CONFINE: Confine the fire by closing all doors and windows.
EXTINGUISH/ EVACUATE: Extinguish the fire by using the nearest fire extinguisher ONLY if there is no threat to you. Evacuate via the nearest means of egress.