Fire

What to Do in an Emergency

  • If you are on campus or a Columbia residence, call Public Safety. If off campus, call 911.

Fire emergency instructions with the acronym RACE. R stands for Rescue or remove any persons needing assistance, shown with an icon of a person helping another in a wheelchair. A stands for Activate the nearest fire alarm as you leave the building, shown with an alarm icon. C stands for Confine the fire by closing doors as you exit, shown with a door icon. E stands for Evacuate using the nearest exit and do not use elevators, shown with an exit sign icon.

Prevention Quick Tips

  • Stay near your food
  • Keep towels off stove
  • Lid > water for grease fires 
  • Use surge protector
  • Don’t daisy-chain
  • Unplug hot appliances when done
  • Clean lint trap
  • Don’t overload
  • Report strange noises or burning smells 
  • Use LED
  • Keep clear of curtains
  • Never burn unattended
  • Candles are prohibited in all student housing

Commonly found in e-bikes, scooters, and other rechargeable devices, Lithium-ion batteries can overheat or explode. See safety tips from Columbia University Facilities and Operations and CUIMC Facilities.