What to do in case of Fire

If Fire or Smoke is Observed

• Immediately activate the fire alarm, if it is not already sounding.
• Call 911 (9-911 if using a campus/room phone) and/or the Department of Public Safety, 218-755-3888 (3888 if using a campus/room phone) or have someone make that call.
• Activate the Building Emergency Plan and begin an external evacuation.
• Close doors to isolate fire and contain smoke, if it can be done safely.
• Move to the closest, safe exit.
  • Check doors with back of hand before opening; if hot move to alternate exit.
  • If door is not hot, open it slowly and check for smoke and odors; if they are strong close door and move to alternate exit.
  • If smoke and odors are tolerable, prop open door and proceed, staying low to lessen smoke exposure.
  • Do not use elevators
  • Help those needing assistance evacuating, if it can be done safely.
  • Report the location of anybody left in the building to emergency responders.
  • Do not return to the building until an “All Clear” is announced by the Fire Department, Public Safety or other recognized authority.

If You Are Unable to Evacuate

• Move into a room as faraway from the source of the fire as possible.
• Close the door.
• Seal the space at the bottom of the door the best you can, to reduce smoke penetration.
• If possible, call or take other actions to notify emergency responders of your location.

Use a Fire Extinguisher Only If

• You have been trained on fire extinguisher use.
• You are confident in your ability to extinguish the fire.
• The fire is small; e.g., no bigger than the size of a wastebasket.
• The fire department has been notified.
• Evacuation has begun.
• You have a safe exit route that the fire cannot block.