Preparing for emergencies well in advance is one of the most effective ways to deal with potential disasters. Review the following precautions and prepare to take the recommended steps.

Steps to follow if you see a fire:

1. Activate the nearest fire alarm.
2. If on campus, call OSU Police at 911; if off campus, call the Stillwater Fire Department at 911. Give your name, address, location, and the extent of the fire.
3. Calmly alert people in the building, and evacuate the building by following EXIT signs.

Steps to follow if you are caught in a fire:

1. Remain calm.
2. Before opening a door, feel it with the back of your hand. If it is HOT:

   A. Do not open the door.
   B. Open the windows. If possible, lower the top half of the window to let out heat and smoke and raise the lower half to let in fresh air.
   C. Seal crack around door with towels, linens or clothes. Soak these items in water if possible.
   D. To attract attention, hang objects out the window. Shout for help.
   E. Keep low to the floor. Take short breaths to avoid inhaling smoke. Place a wet towel over your nose and mouth. Keep your head six (6) to eight (8) inches off the floor.

3. If the door is NOT HOT, brace yourself against the door and open it slowly. If hot air or fire rushes in, close the door and refer to step 2-2.
4. If you can leave, close all doors behind you and proceed to the nearest safe exit. Leave the building and stand clear of the fire. Provide directions to police and fire personnel when they arrive.

Steps to follow for fire prevention:

1. Know every regular and emergency exit. Know how to activate the alarm system and what it sounds like. Know the location of fire extinguishers and how to operate them.
2. Arrange the contents of your room with fire safety in mind. Maintain clear and unobstructed access to your room door, from both inside and outside.
3. Do not overload electrical outlets. Do not use broken, frayed, or cracked electrical cords. Do not suspend lamps or lights by their own cords.
4. If you smoke, exercise care when smoking and do not smoke in bed.
5. Do not allow excess clutter of flammable materials.

For further information, contact Environmental Health Services at 744-7241.