Your Fire Safety Practices - Residences and Townhouses

On-campus living has many similar methods to maximize individual safety, whether in a Residence Building or in a Residence Townhouse.

 

 Residence Buildings

 

All Residence Buildings have a fire alarm system, smoke alarms and are fully sprinklered.  For any fire prevention issues within your residence room, please contact  Student Housing and Residence Life immediately.

A Fire Drill is conducted at least once per semester, for a minimum of 3 times each calendar year.

 

  • Erindale Hall - 1525 Outer Circle
  • Oscar Peterson Hall (OPH) - 3375 Residence Road
  • Roy Ivor Hall - 3370 Residence Road

 Residence Townhomes

 

All Residence Townhomes have stand-alone smoke alarms installed.  The alarms are well equipped to detect smoke and immediately alert sleeping residents.

These alarms must not be tampered with or removed; report any smoke alarm issues to Student Housing and Residence Life immediately.

 

  • Leacock Lane - 1900 Outer Circle
  • MaGrath Valley - 1499 The Collegeway
  • McLuhan Court - 3330 Residence Road
  • Putnam Place - 1930 Outer Circle
  • Schreiberwood - 3400/3401 Residence Road

 

The following practices are proven fire safety tips and they they can be applied in Residence buildings and townhouses.

 

Stove top with pot and kettle

Kitchen Safety:

 Most household fires are caused by unattended cooking or unsafe kitchen practices.  To avoid activating the smoke alarm and to reduce fire potential, follow the steps below:

  • Always remain in the kitchen with active cooking appliances
  • Avoid cooking while under the influence of any substance: takeout and microwavable foods are safer alternatives
  • Keep stove tops clear of all combustible items, including paper towels, plastic bottles and utensils and dish towels, for example
  • Clean away food debris and remove grease buildup often

     

     

No Smoking sign (graphic)

No Smoking within all Campus Buildings:

As smoking is prohibited inside commercial buildings, UTM campus does not allow indoor smoking in any of its buildings.

ABC Fire Extinguisher, showing the label

 Fire Extinguishers:

Extinguishers placed strategically to account for associated potential hazards.

  • ABC extinguishers, like the one pictured at left, appear in residential areas, both residence buildings and townhouses
  • As sizes may vary, familiarize yourself with the extinguisher's features
  • For an extinguisher located in your living area: remember its location and ensure it remains accessible

     

Elevator In Case of Fire Sign

 Exit Safely:

Evacuation procedures may vary slightly, depending on location.  Follow these general rules:

  • Be aware of multiple exit paths in all buildings; there are a minimum of two in every building.  Where all interior exits are blocked, use a window for emergency evacuation
  • Exit doors and paths must remain unobstructed.  Move away clothing, shoes, furniture and storage items to ensure your suite door is clear for a safe and fast evacuation
  • When a fire, smoke or carbon monoxide alarm sounds: Evacuate immediately.  Call 9-1-1
  • When a fire alarm sounds, do not use the elevators
  • Leave safely by the nearest exit door and close all doors behind you to limit smoke and fire movement
  • Do not return to the building until the fire department clears the scene
White Electrical Cord

 Appliance Safety:

An approved electrical appliance will be marked; to ensure your safety, familiarize yourself with approval markings.  Remember the following items:

  • Space heaters must have a 3 foot clearance
  • Extension cords are not meant for permanent use
  • Unplug any appliance when not in use, as this action saves energy and mitigates fire risk
  • Check electrical cords for any cracks, frayed spots, cuts or other damage.  Damaged cords need to be replaced immediately