In the Event of a Fire
All UIC faculty and staff are required to conduct themselves in such a way so as to not increase the fire hazard to themselves or any property leased or owned by the University.
A fire hazard is any situation in which there is a greater than normal risk of harm to people or property due to the potential to cause fire or increase the likelihood of injury if a fire occurs. Fire hazards may take the form of, but are not limited to:
- Obstructing or compromising adequate exit routes.
- Overloading electrical systems, faulty devices, or equipment.
- Improperly storing or using hazardous materials.
- Using devices or equipment improperly.
IF YOU DISCOVER FIRE ON YOUR FLOOR:

- Once you are safely outside the building, call 911!
- Alert authorities to those who may need assistance.
- DO NOT reenter the building until you are informed by emergency response personnel that it is safe to return.
WHAT TO DO ONCE THE FIRE ALARM IS ACTIVATED:
- Use the back of your hand to feel closed doors. DO NOT open them if they are hot. If you are unable to leave, use a wet cloth to seal cracks under the door and to cover air vents. Call UIC
- Police to inform them of your location and situation.
- Those who are unable to evacuate the building rapidly, such as people with physical disabilities, should move to a stairwell landing and contact UIC Police via telephone.
- DO NOT congregate in the building lobby.
- DO NOT use elevators unless instructed to do so by the Chicago Fire Department.
IF YOU ARE CAUGHT IN SMOKE:
- Drop to your hands and knees and crawl toward an exit.
- Stay low to the floor, as smoke rises to the ceiling level.
- Hold your breath as much as possible.
- Breathe shallowly, through your nose, and use a filter such as your shirt or a towel.
IF YOU ARE TRAPPED IN A ROOM:
- Place wet cloth material around or under the door to prevent smoke from entering the room.
- Close as many doors as possible between you and the fire.
- Be prepared to signal someone outside, but DO NOT break glass unless it is absolutely necessary!
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Call 911!
