Fire

Fire is the rapid oxidation of a material in the exothermic chemical process of combustion, releasing heat, light, and various reaction products.

What to Do

  • If you smell smoke or see fire, implement R.A.C.E: Rescue, Alert, Confine, and Extinguish/Evacuate.
  • Activate the fire alarm.
  • Report the situation by calling RUPD at 713-348-6000. Give:
    • Exact location of the fire (building, floor, room number)
    • Type of fire (electrical, flammable liquid, trash, etc.)
    • Extent of fire (severity of fire and/or amount of smoke)
    • Your name and telephone number
  • If you are trained and comfortable with the situation, attempt to extinguish a small fire using the proper fire extinguisher and the PASS method:
    • Pull the safety pin from the handle.
    • Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
    • Squeeze the trigger handle.
    • Sweep from side to side at the base.
  • Close doors along the exit path when possible to contain the spread of fire.
  • DO NOT lock the door. Leave the corridor and room lights on.
  • If possible, shut off all non-essential oxygen, gas, and electrical appliances in the area and remove any hazardous materials.
  • Evacuate the building using the nearest stairwell available.
  • If you hear the alarm sound, grab your essential personal belongings (phone, wallet, keys) and evacuate the building as quickly and safely as possible.
    • Never use the elevator.
    • Use the nearest stairwell available.
  • If the door is hot or if you see smoke outside the door, stay in your room or exit through a window if possible.
    • Call RUPD at 713-348-6000 to communicate your location and situation.
    • Cover the gap between the door and floor with wet towels.
    • If the door is cool and there is no smoke, evacuate the building using the nearest stairwell.
  • If you are caught in smoke, stay low and crawl towards exit. Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth or towel and breathe shallowly.
  • Laboratory Shutdown Procedure in the event of fire:
    • Stop lab work.
    • Shut off ignition sources such as Bunsen burners.
    • Close the sash on fume hoods and biosafety cabinets.
    • Remove personal protective equipment.
    • Evacuate the building.
  • Never re-enter the building until emergency officials have cleared you to do so.
  • Individuals with impaired mobility should call RUPD at 713-348-6000 and request assistance with evacuation.

How to Prepare

  • Know the Prohibited Items in Residential Colleges, including:
    • all cooking/heating appliances, including coffee makers
    • all smoke or vapor producing devices, including candles, incense, flammables, and incendiaries
  • Do not smoke indoors or within 25 feet of any door or window. See Rice University's Smoking Policy for designated smoking areas.
  • Do not cover or tamper with the smoke detector.
  • Do not tamper with the thermostat.
  • Document your belongings through video/pictures.

How to Recover

  • Use your documented inventory to aid in the recovery of any belongings lost in a fire.
  • Communicate your safety status to family, loved ones, and your College Magister.