FIRE SAFETY RIGHT TO KNOW

Clarion University Fire Safety Right-to-Know

Life Safety Policy

Clarion University is committed to provide a safe environment for all students, faculty, staff, and visitors.  It is the University's intent to protect members of the campus community against avoidable and undue risks of injury or death due to fire.  Fire prevention measures also minimize loss of property due to fire.  It is the intent of the University to provide a safe environment with respect to fire and emergency safety by following in the International Fire Code (IFC).

Clarion University Fire Safety Report

Residence Hall Fire Safety Systems

All Residence Halls are equipped with automatic fire alarms consisting of smoke detectors, heat detectors, and manual alarm pull stations.  They are also equipped with automatic sprinkler systems.  All buildings have fire extinguishers placed in strategic positions for use in fighting small fires.  In addition, Wilkinson and Nair Halls are outfitted with automatic positive pressure ventilation systems in the stairwells.  All Fire and Life Safety systems are maintained in accordance with the International Fire Code.

Emergency Evacuation Drills

Emergency Evacuation Drills shall include all occupants and be held at least four times annually.  The first emergency evacuation drill shall be conducted within 10 days of the beginning of classes.  Drills shall be held at random and conducted during all hours of the day to avoid distinction between drills and actual fires.  One required drill shall be held during hours after sunset or before sunrise.

Residence Hall Policies

Smoking and open flames are prohibited in all Residence Halls.  The following items are not permitted in residence halls:

• Halogen Lamps
• Candles
• Incense
• Explosives/ Live Ammunition
• Unsafe Electrical Devices
• Flammable Holiday Decorations (Live Christmas trees, hay bales, corn stalks, etc.)

Refrigerators, microwaves, hot pots, hot-air popcorn poppers, and coffee makers with automatic shut-off features are allowed. All other cooking appliances are prohibited.  There may be additions to the restrictions placed on what students may bring into the residence halls as deemed necessary by the Residence Life Services office.

Procedure for Reporting and Responding to a Fire

Be aware of possible primary and secondary emergency exit routes, fire alarm pull stations, and emergency procedures of your place of residence.  Those with physical disabilities should notify Residence Life in advance with special needs to plan for an evacuation.  If you become temporarily physically disabled due to an injury, Residence Life should also be informed.

Responding to a fire or hearing a fire alarm:

• If a fire alarm is heard or seen, immediately begin evacuation of the building.
• Close all windows and doors behind you. 
• If a fire or smoke is discovered, sound the building fire alarm. 
• Notify University Police at extension 814-393-2111 or dial 911.
• Close the window to your room.
• Proceed quickly to the nearest exit, closing room and stairwell doors as you leave (do not lock doors).  Closing doors helps to confine the fire by reducing oxygen flow.
• DO NOT USE ELEVATORS.
• Alert others as you leave.
• Activate the fire alarm as you leave the building.
• If you encounter smoke, stay near the floor and below the smoke.
• Exit the building and assemble in the area established by your Residence Staff. Do not leave the area as you must be accounted for.
• If unable to leave your room due to heat, smoke or fire telephone University Police at 814-393-2111 or dial 911 to give your location so firefighters may find you.  If possible hang a bright colored towel or article of clothing out your window to signal for assistance.
• Do not return to an evacuated building unless told to do so by an authorized university official.

Use of Fire Extinguishers

Properly trained and competent residence hall staff may attempt to put out fire using fire extinguishers.  Fire extinguishers are not meant to fight large or spreading fires.

Apply the following guidelines when using a fire extinguisher:

• Only trained personnel should use a fire extinguisher
• Activate a fire alarm prior to using a fire extinguisher
• Always position yourself with an exit or means of escape at your back before using a fire extinguisher to put out a fire
• If the fire is producing large amounts of smoke that you may inhale fighting it, do not try to extinguish the fire.

If you are uncomfortable with the situation for any reason, get out and let the fire department fight the fire.

Distribution and Availability

Fire safety and evacuation plans shall be available for reference by residents and staff at the Residence Life help desks located in Givan and Nair Halls, and the University Police office.

Education and Training Programs

Residence Hall Faculty and Staff participate in live-burn fire extinguisher and classroom fire safety training at a minimum of once-per-year.  Students, faculty, and staff may request fire safety training by contacting John Massa in the Public Safety Office.