Page4 • A wet sprinkler system is always "on", it has water in the pipes at all times. • A dry-pipe sprinkler system is used in areas prone to freezing temperatures. These sprinkler systems are dry until activated by a fire. • Sprinkler heads are heat sensitive devices. These devices activate when the air in the immediate area of the sprinkler head reaches a pre-determined temperature. Sprinkler heads operate independently. Sprinkler heads will not activate as a result of smoke in the area. • Typically, an activated sprinkler head will flow 30 gallons of water per minute. Once the fire is extinguished, the water flow must be shut off manually. PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS Fire extinguishers are located in hallways, common areas and mechanical areas of residence halls and apartments. Multi-class (ABC), multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguishers, pressurized water fire extinguishers and CO2 fire extinguishers are provided in residence halls and apartments. Fire extinguishers are inspected by the Office of Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) and annually per NFPA guidelines by a NICET certified fire suppression technician. Per NFPA 10 and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.157, fire extinguishers receive six-year maintenance and are hydro-tested every 5 or 12 years, depending on the type of fire extinguisher. Fire class is dependent on the type of material that is burning. • Class A fires - ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper and trash, • Class B fires- combustible and flammable liquids and gases such as gasoline, kerosene or propane and butane, • Class C fires energized electrical circuits/equipment. A multi-class fire extinguisher can extinguish different classes of fires. FIRE/EVACUATION DRILLS In compliance with Commonwealth of Pennsylvania regulations and University policy, fire/evacuation drills are conducted each semester during the academic year. The first drill is conducted at the start of the fall semester. Evacuation is required of all occupants when the fire alarm is activated in any campus housing facility. Evacuation drill performance is evaluated by the Office of Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS). Feedback is provided to Residence Life and lessons learned are incorporated in training. EVACUATION PROCEDURES If you smell smoke or observe fire: • Activate a manual pull station if the fire alarm is not already activated. • Upon activation of the fire alarm, all occupants shall immediately leave the building by the nearest safe exit. If time permits close windows and doors. Become familiar with the
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