Fire

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:

RACE

  • 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!

  • Call 911!