This page covers various aspects of fire safety within the Department of Chemistry. There are a number of trained fire wardens in the Department, who will help you to leave the building safely in the event of a fire. You should familiarise yourself with the nearest escape routes from the building.
If a fire starts in the office environment, the usual policy is to get everyone out as quickly as possible and call the fire brigade.
However there may be times when a fire is discovered at an early stage and is considered controllable. In such a situation an attempt to extinguish the fire using fire extinguishing equipment should only be made if:
However fires can spread very quickly and if the situation escalates and becomes uncontrollable then it must be abandoned immediately.
You should use the appropriate fire extinguisher for the type of fire you need to fight.
How to use an extinguisher is best remembered by the acronym P.A.S.S.:
Stop squeezing the handle once fire is extinguished and watch for rekindling. Never turn your back to the fire. The distance from the fire when using the extinguisher is important. Always follow the instructions on the fire extinguisher as to the distance required. Always approach the fire with your back to an exit. If unable to extinguish, set extinguisher down and exit the building, closing doors behind you.