Fire Prevention

Fire drills are conducted to familiarize occupants with response procedures in an emergency. Fire Safety is everyone’s responsibility and awareness of your emergency exit routes are critical.

• At a minimum, every building must have two means of egress.

In an emergency, it’s extremely critical to keep corridors free from clutter. Obstructions will compromise evacuation, especially where visibility is reduced.

• Make sure all emergency exits and escape routes are clear.

Corridor/hallway doors on campus have a fire rating. These doors must remain closed. In the event of a fire, these doors are needed to confine the fire.

In order to prevent fires in the workplace, CUIMC employees should implement the following safe work practices:

• Never block or obstruct access to firefighting equipment (e.g. extinguishers).
• Maintain a clean workplace. Excessive storage conditions can contribute to the growth of large fires and become obstacles during evacuation.
• Store flammable work materials and chemicals in a safe location away from any ignition sources.
• Ensure electrical cords are in good condition. Remove equipment from service if wires are found exposed or damaged until they have been repaired or replaced.
• Check that power outlets are not overloaded and that outlets and extension cords are capable of handling the voltage requirements.  

CUIMC is a smoke-free campus, therefore smoking is prohibited anywhere on campus.

In situations where there is an actual fire occurring, employees shall implement R.A.C.E. and P.A.S.S. procedures:

• R.A.C.E.: Rescue, Alarm, Confine, Extinguish/Evacuate
• P.A.S.S.: Pull the pin, Aim the hose, Squeeze the handle, Sweep side-to-side

For more information or for questions about fire safety, please contact:
Campus Life Safety and Regulatory Compliance
William Black Building
650 West 168th St., B-02
cumcfiresafety@columbia.edu

In an emergency, always call Public Safety at 212-305-7979. Please note, fire officers are now available 24/7.