Fire Safety Protocol

Reviewed 01/15

Fire prevention is the responsibility of all employees of the Metropolitan Library System.  Everyone should be acquainted with the locations of emergency exits, fire extinguishers and fire hoses and alarm pull stations within the building.  These procedures are written to ensure understanding of duty assignments under any staffing situation for the library.  Be prepared. Make sure everyone knows their assigned role in case of a real emergency.

1. Prepare Evacuation Plans
   • Develop a good plan tailored to your building and conduct frequent drills.  Use the Evacuation Procedures template in this manual to develop a plan specific to your location.
   • Post easy-to-read signs throughout the building indicating the nearest evacuation routes.
   • Designate a safe assembly area outside the building and ensure all staff knows the location.
   • Make a plan and have special provision for disabled staff or customers.
   • Put together an emergency kit and ensure staff members know where it is kept.
   • Emergency Kit will include:
   • Employee roster and current schedule
   • Emergency Phone Numbers
   • First Aid Kit
   • Flashlight
2. State of Readiness
   • Ensure all staff members know the locations of emergency exits, fire extinguishers and pull stations throughout the building.
   • Define the role of each staff person assigned to ensure evacuation of all areas
   • Library personnel will make themselves aware of customers in the building at all times and be prepared to evacuate quickly.
   • Conduct monthly inspections of fire extinguishers and emergency exit indicators.
   • Conduct regular/frequent drills to ensure all staff know duty assignments and procedures.
3. Expected Response at the Sound of Alarm
   • If flames or smoke are visible, any employee is authorized to activate the nearest fire alarm pull station. 
   • The fire alarm system should detect most fires through smoke or heat sensors and will automatically activate the fire alarm system and notify the fire department.  Even though the fire alarm sounds, call 911 if you see fire or smoke.
   • Employees must remain calm and offer assistance to anyone needing help in evacuating the facility. Non-ambulatory persons should be moved to the nearest stairwell or designated safe area to await rescue by the fire department.
   • Elevators should not be used.
   • Staff person(s) from each area/floor has been designated to ensure that everyone is out and then report to the In-charge library employee as soon as the area has emptied and report the location of anyone left inside awaiting rescue by the fire department.  Do not attempt to enter smoke-filled areas to search for customer or employees.
   • Everyone will move to the designated assembly area outside the building and await further instructions and information.  All will remain outside the building until an all-clear announcement is made by the in-charge library employee.