Brock University has adjusted the way it will run its fire safety awareness campaign this fall due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Every October, Campus Security Services (CSS) and Health, Safety and Wellness (HSW) team up to raise awareness regarding fire safety, but this year’s campaign comes with its own unique challenges.

As a result, CSS and HSW are taking a new approach to fire safety planning and activities.

The biggest change this year will see the fire drill schedule shared in advance. Typically, the drills run without notification and the audible and visual functions are active. However, this year, the priority is to keep the Brock community safe during COVID-19.

Instead, the drills will run silently with no need for occupant evacuation. This will ensure occupant safety by following physical distancing guidelines. The focus will be on assessing system response, rather than occupant response.

Additionally, Fire Prevention Week was Oct. 4 to 10 this year. The focus was ‘Serve up Fire Safety in the Kitchen.’ The Brock community is encouraged to review the resources and information from the National Fire Prevention Association.

This summer, the University community was advised of changes to the Emergency Warden System, as well as fire safety protocols on Brock campuses during COVID-19. 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 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 at security@brocku.ca or HSW at 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

For more information on the planned silent fire drills or fire prevention measures, please contact Campus Security security@brocku.ca or HSW besafe@brocku.ca.

Please see the schedule below for the upcoming planned fire alarms.