Arson is the largest single cause of fires in the workplace. Keep your workplace secure. Lock doors after hours and remove clutter from public areas.
Don’t stack papers on top of computer monitors, and be sure to give heat-producing equipment room to breathe.
Don’t pinch extensions cords under furniture, and don’t plug extension cords into each other.
Report and replace frayed electrical cords.
Keep stairways and exits clear of trash, cleaning supplies, and other combustibles.
Unplug coffee makers and other small appliances when you leave work.

Plan Ahead for a Fire Emergency

Read your building’s evacuation plan
Know where the fire alarms are located and learn how to use them
Know at least two ways out of your work area
Count the doors or desks between where you work
and the nearest exits
If you have a physical disability, make sure your employer includes your special needs in the company evacuation plans

Employer Responsibilities

Train all employees in the proper operation and use of portable fire extinguishers
Train all employees in fire escape procedures
Prepare and post building evacuation plans
Conduct regular fire drills
Include the needs of disabled employees in emergency planning

When to do if Fire Strikes…

Sound the alarm, even for a small fire
Leave immediately and close doors behind you
If you encounter smoke, try a different escape route.
If you have to escape through smoke, crawl. Keep your head one to two feet above the floor. That is where the air is cleanest.
Check doorknobs and the space around the door with the back of your hand. If the door feels warm, find another escape route. If it's cool, open it slowly, and be ready to close it quickly if smoke enters.
Once outside, move away from the building and clear of firefighters. Stay outside until the fire department gives permission to re-enter.
In certain high-rise buildings, the fire emergency plan mandates that workers in unaffected areas stay inside until directed otherwise by firefighters.
Never ignore a fire alarm!

Fire Safety

at work