Campus Security Services (CSS), Facilities Management (FM) and Health, Safety & Wellness (HSW) will be working together to run a silent fire drill to test and assess the fire safety system and associated equipment.

The silent fire drill will take place in Brock’s Schmon Tower, Rankin Family Pavilion and Thistle Complex on Friday, July 31 at approximately 11 a.m.

The audible function of the alarm systems will be silenced and those on campus do not need to evacuate any of the buildings being tested.

While Friday’s fire drill does not require any action, it is important to note that Brock’s regular emergency fire procedures have been modified due to COVID-19.

Under normal circumstances during a fire alarm, Brock uses an Emergency Warden System to assist in the evacuation of Brock buildings. With many employees and Emergency Wardens working remotely, the normal procedures have been temporarily amended.

Until further notice, HSW is urging all members of the Brock community who are permitted to be on campus to familiarize themselves with the following emergency procedures in case of emergency.

Being prepared

• It is a best practice to be familiar with exit routes
• Access to exits inside and outside should always be clear of combustibles and hazards
• Always keep doors in fire separations closed
• Advise Campus Security security@brocku.ca or HSW besafe@brocku.ca of any hazards, especially those that may negatively affect evacuations

Persons Requiring Assistance

• Persons Requiring Assistance (PRA) should be identified prior to emergencies; PRAs should make a point of communicating limitations and assistance they may require in the event of an evacuation.
• Assistance with determining specific individualized plans can be provided by contacting HSW at besafe@brocku.ca

  If you discover a fire — shout

• Activate the nearest fire alarm pull station and begin building evacuation
• Warn others to immediately leave the building at the nearest safe exit or staircase
• Only attempt fire suffocation with a fire extinguisher if you are comfortable operating an extinguisher, it is safe to do so and it is required for safe egress
• If you do attempt fire suffocation remember the PASS approach:
  P: Pull the pin
  A: Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire
  S: Squeeze the handle
  S: Sweep from side to side
• Leave the fire area and close the doors
• Call 911 from a safe location to ensure response
• Contact CSS at 905-688-5550 x3200

If you hear a fire alarm — get out

• Close doors behind you, leave the building via the closest safe exit or staircase
• Never use elevators
• If you encounter smoke in the staircase, use an alternate staircase or exit
• Help mobility impaired individuals to exit or to a pre-planned safe area of refuge, preferably a staircase landing or an enclosed fire rated space near the staircase and then advise CSS or a member of the fire department of their location
• Once evacuated, keep a safe distance of 30 metres from an exit or proceed to an unaffected building

Stay out

• Do not re-enter the affected building until authorized by the fire department or CSS