Fire Safety

Fire alarm systems report directly to the Public Safety Communications Center and are monitored on a twenty-four hour basis. Any fire, smoke or suspicious odor condition should be immediately reported to Public Safety by calling 570-484-2278 or 711 for emergencies using a University phone. Never hesitate to report these conditions, even if you are not sure there is a fire. If a fire condition exists but was extinguished, Public Safety must still be called. If 911 is called directly, make a follow-up call to Public Safety so they may meet and facilitate the fire department response.

Residence halls are all equipped with fire safety systems. 

Fire Drills, Evacuation and Fire Safety Education

Fire drills are scheduled in residence hall facilities once per semester. All residents and guests are required to evacuate the building when an alarm is activated. During a fire alarm, evacuate the building by using stairs and moving away from the building a distance equal to the approximate height of the building. Do not block parking or service road and entrance areas as these may be needed by emergency responders. Drills will be evaluated for their effectiveness by Public Safety and Residence Hall staff. Resident Directors and Resident Assistants receive fire safety and extinguisher training from a Public Safety officer.

Each resident receives a copy of the Lock Haven University Student Handbook. The guide contains information concerning fire prevention measures and fire alarm procedures.

Smoking and any type of open flame is not permitted within Residence Hall facilities. This includes candles, incense or any type of fame cooking devices. The addition of cooking and/or electrical appliances i.e. hotplates, toaster ovens, space heaters or halogen lamps are prohibited. You should consult with Housing and Residence Life staff if you have a question about any appliance.

Fire Safety Inspections and Improvements

Fire protection systems are tested annually by a contracted company. Improvements, upgrades or repairs to fire safety systems are made when tests or evaluations indicate a problem exists. Notify Public Safety whenever you notice damage or a possible problem with fire protection equipment. Resident staff complete weekly inspection of all fire extinguishers making sure they are fully charged, the emergency lighting equipment and policies. Any fire safety violations will be cited and referred for immediate correction. Violators may be judicially referred.

Specific Fire Safety Procedures

• Be aware of the exit locations in your building.
• If a fire alarm is activated, immediately leave the building. Get others to do the same as you leave.
• Use the stairs, not the elevators, when evacuating the building.
• Move a safe distance away from the building, and do not congregate in roadways or service drives.
• If a person is disabled or in need of assistance, tell responding emergency services personnel. Use stairwells as a place or refuge until emergency personnel arrive to safely move the person from the building.
• Close all doors and windows. This will help contain any possible fire, smoke or poisonous gases.
• Use fire extinguishers only on small fires or only if it appears safe to do so. Do not put your own safety in danger.
• Never hesitate to activate a fire alarm system if you suspect fire, smoke or unusual heat.
• Provide emergency responders with any information you may have about the fire alarm condition or persons injured or needing assistance.
• Don't re-enter the building until the alarm stops and emergency personnel provide an "all-clear" message