Emergency and Evacuation Procedures

When the fire alarm sounds, building evacuation is required by all individuals who are within the building. University Student Housing will conduct fire evacuation drills in the residence halls at the beginning of each semester. Evacuation information and route signs are located in the hallways, typically by the fire extinguisher on the floor of the residence halls. Becoming familiar with evacuation routes is encouraged.

Failure to Evacuate

Failure to evacuate during a fire alarm will result in a referral to the university conduct process and could result in an arrest for violating state and federal law. Residents and guests are expected to follow the directions provided by university officials, staff, law enforcement, and/or first responders.

Fire Evacuation for Students, Faculty, and Staff

If you are in your room/apartment/office and believe you can exit safely:

1. Feel your door before opening it.
   1. If the door is hot, DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR!
2. If you can leave safely, exit the building using the nearest exit, and proceed to an agreed upon location to let staff know you have safely exited the building.
   1. If in a residence hall or apartment:
      1. Put on a coat and shoes when possible
      2. Close the door to your room/apartment upon leaving and take your room key
      3. Take a large, damp bath towel with you if possible. If smoke is present, cover your mouth and nose.
   2. Evacuate the building using the most suitable method. If smoke or fire is observed, use an alternate route
      1. Cooperate fully with staff and proceed immediately and in an orderly manner to a designated exit
      2. Close doors behind you along the exit path to contain the spread of flames and smoke, if time permits
   3. If the fire alarm is sounding, NEVER use the elevators!
   4. Once outside move as far away from the building as possible and keep away from emergency equipment
      1. In the case of inclement weather, proceed to the lobby of the nearest building or residence hall
      2. Account for your friends and roommates
   5. Follow instructions from all emergency personnel, including fire safety personnel and police
   6. Do not re-enter the building until the "all clear" is sounded

If you are in your residence hall room/apartment/office and are not able to evacuate:

1. Call 911
2. Provide your Name, Room Number, Building Name, Phone Number if applicable
3. Explain a fire alarm is sounding in your TTU Residence Hall/Apartment/Office Building and you are unable to evacuate
   1. If possible, place damp clothes or towels under the door.
   2. Wait by the window so you will be spotted by someone attempting to see into your room.
   3. Place a bright object in the window to attract attention, but DO NOT BREAK THE WINDOW

If you have a disability or are with a person who has a disability:

If you are in your residence hall room/apartment/office and are NOT ABLE to evacuate due to a disability:

1. Call 911
2. State you have a disability and need assistance
3. You may have to explain the nature of your disability to the dispatch officer
4. Designate your location (In my room #X in X building or in X stairwell on X floor in X building)

Be prepared to explain or have a step-by-step explanation of the most efficient way to disengage any equipment to facilitate the evacuation.

If you utilize a wheelchair or other mobility vehicle or device:

If you cannot safely reach the ground floor and exit, go to the nearest outside stairwell. Stay on the landing, off to the side.

1. As a last resort, go to the nearest interior stairwell.
2. If the fire alarm is sounding, NEVER use the elevators!
3. Establish a "buddy system" for your residence hall/apartment/office building and each of your classes. Your "buddy" can assist you in evacuating quickly or notifying emergency personnel of your location in the event you cannot leave the building. This person should not be a residence hall staff member as they cannot ensure availability or ability to perform only as your "buddy".