Safety preparation is a top priority during Brock’s annual recognition of Fire Prevention Week.

In compliance with the Ontario Fire Code, several fire safety drills will take place across campus from Tuesday, Oct. 9 to Friday, Oct. 12. During drills, the alarm system will be activated and Brock officials will observe and compile reports. Members of the St. Catharines Fire Prevention division may be on site to assess efficiencies and address concerns.

The fire drill locations and times will be intentionally withheld, however, they will not interfere with a public citizenship ceremony on Tuesday, Oct. 9 or Convocation ceremonies on Friday, Oct. 12.

All occupants should adhere to standard fire evacuation procedures, be familiar with procedures for persons requiring assistance, follow directions provided by emergency wardens and supervisors, and vacate areas as quickly as possible. Additional resources are available on SharePoint.

“Drills are a great opportunity for departments to review their meeting points, practise their egress routes and address any concerns,” said Rick Fraser, Manager of Emergency Management and Life Safety. “Safely and efficiently evacuating can be critical in the event of an actual emergency.”

It’s best practice for all departments across campus to review their areas and walk escape routes a few times annually.

Emergency wardens are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the fire safety plan applicable to their areas and complete the emergency warden training module on Sakai, found under the Health and Safety heading within the ‘Tests & Quizzes’ area. The training is available to all staff and faculty.

The National Fire Protection Association’s campaign for this year’s Fire Prevention Week focuses on three basic but essential steps that can reduce the probability of a fire: ‘Look. Listen. Learn. Beware. Fire can happen anywhere.’

For more information on the planned fire drills or Fire Prevention Week, contact Fraser at x3130 or rfraser2@brocku.ca or Brian Dzurban, Occupational Health and Safety Specialist at x3284 or bdzurban@brocku.ca