Fire Prevention Week 2016 is scheduled from Oct. 9 to 15. The focus this year is Don’t Wait, Check the Date which refers to the importance of checking smoke alarms and replacing units every 10 years.

This is the third consecutive year where the emphasis has been placed on smoke alarms because the devices save lives by alerting occupants before the inhalation of smoke and poisonous gases including carbon monoxide lead to unconsciousness.

As part of Fire Prevention week, Brock will be scheduling a number of fire drills starting Tuesday, Oct. 11 in order to comply with Ontario Fire Code. The exact times and locations are intentionally withheld.

During the drills, the alarm system will be activated by a technician and Brock officials will observe the actions of occupants, document evacuations and compile a report for the St. Catharines Fire Department. Members of the St. Catharines Fire Prevention Division are also typically on campus to evaluate the drills.

There are no special requirements of students, staff and faculty. All occupants should adhere to normal evacuation procedures, follow directions provided by Emergency Wardens and vacate areas as quickly as possible. Emergency Wardens are reminded that an Emergency Warden training module is available from Sakai. This training is available to all active staff and faculty.

The safe and efficient evacuation from areas/buildings is critically important. Information on proper evacuation procedures is available from OneBrock and the Brock website.

For more information, contact Rick Fraser, Manager of Emergency Management and Life Safety at ext. 3130 or rfraser2@brocku.ca or Brian Dzurban, Health, Safety & Wellness Coordinator at ext. 3284 or bdzurban@brocku.ca.