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Residential Life

Safety and Security

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 Security, 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.
  • If a fire extinguisher is available, you may use it 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 a wastebasket.
    • The fire department has been notified.
    • Evacuation has begun.
    • You have a safe exit route that the fire cannot block.
  • Close doors to isolate fire and contain smoke, if possible and safe to do so.
  • 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