October 2026: Fire Safety
We continue in October with a focus on fire safety. By increasing awareness and sharing practical tips, we aim to empower faculty, staff, and students to prevent fires and respond effectively when an emergency happens.
The UMass Amherst Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Fire Safety team works to protect our community through prevention and training programs. They maintain essential safety systems, facilitate hands-on trainings, and support building evacuation planning and drills. They coordinate with campus partners to ensure campus is compliant with local and state fire regulations.
Be Informed
Most fires are preventable with safe everyday practices. Knowing where risks exist helps you make better decisions:
- Fire alarms, sprinklers, and extinguishers are critical safety equipment and shall ever be tampered with.
- Always use surge protectors and never daisy-chain cords, which can overload circuits and start electrical fires.
- Never use water on a grease fire. Turn the heat off immediately and cover the pan with a metal lid or baking sheet.
- Candles, incense, and open flames are strictly prohibited in all campus buildings.
If you identify a safety concern in your workspace, contact EHS at @email to report it or request consultation for possible solutions.
Have a Plan
Knowing where to go and what to do makes all the difference:
- Identify at least two evacuation routes out of the buildings you regularly use. Consider taking an alternative path once a week to help familiarize yourself with the space.
- When a fire alarm sounds, stop what you are doing and evacuate promptly. Do not assume it is a drill unless officially announced.
If you cannot evacuate, find an enclosed room or hallway near an exit that is away from fire and smoke and shelter-in-place. Call 911 or UMPD (413-545-3111) to notify them of your location.
If you need assistance during an emergency due to mobility limitations, hearing or vision impairments, or other accessibility needs, contact the Office of Emergency Management at @email to develop an emergency plan tailored to your needs.
Build a Kit
Take action now to strengthen your fire safety skills:
- Join us around campus this month for fire extinguisher demonstrations where you can safely practice putting out real flames. Request a demonstration for your residence hall, student organizations, or department and we will come to you!
- Test at-home smoke detectors every six months and keep extra batteries on hand.
- Daylight Savings (November 1, 2026) is a great reminder to do this!
- Store important documents in a fireproof and waterproof container.
Learn more about fire safety resources and training opportunities with UMass Environmental Health & Safety.
Be alert. Be prepared. Be UMass Ready.
Fire Extinguisher Demonstrations
Join the EHS Fire Safety team as we go around campus conducting fire extinguisher demonstrations. You will have the opportunity to safely practice putting out real flames. Drop by for 15 minutes and take your turn!
All sessions are 1p - 2pm
- Wednesday, October 14: Student Union Plaza
- Friday, October 16: Goodell Lawn
- Tuesday, October 27: Worcester DC Plaza
- Tuesday, November 3: Hampshire DC Plaza
2026 Series Archive
Missed a month? Our archive is here to help! Access all previous topics from the Be UMass Ready Monthly Preparedness Series. Whether you are looking to refresh your knowledge or explore a new area, you will find practical tips and resources for every situation.