Emergency Procedures

Fire Emergencies

Fire emergency procedures should be followed by all Rice University personnel in the event of a fire or explosion:

If you discover a fire or see smoke:

  1. Remove all personnel (students, visitors and employees) from the immediate danger area.
  2. Activate the fire alarm system by pulling the nearest pull station.
  3. Report the situation by dialing 713-348-6000 (Rice University Police) and report:
    • EXACT location of the fire (building, floor and room #);
    • Type of fire (electrical, flammable liquid, trash, etc.);
    • Extent of fire (severity of fire and/or amount of smoke);
    • Any mobility impaired personnel needing assistance
    • Your name and telephone number.
  4. If you feel comfortable, attempt to extinguish the fire using the proper fire extinguisher.
  5. Confine the fire and smoke by closing all windows and doors.
  6. DO NOT LOCK THE DOOR. LEAVE THE CORRIDOR AND ROOM LIGHTS ON.
  7. If possible, shut off all non-essential oxygen, gas and electrical appliances in the area and remove any hazardous materials.
  8. Evacuate the building using the nearest enclosed stairway or ground exit.
  9. Re-enter the building only after the all clear is given by emergency personnel.

In the event of an emergency, EHSLO or RUPD will attempt to contact a laboratory representative who can advise emergency responders of any hazardous materials present. Door signs and laboratory contacts should be kept up to date.

If the fire alarm sounds in your building:

  1. Evacuate the building using the nearest enclosed stairway or ground exit. Be sure to take personal belongings electronics and keys with you.
  2. Re-enter the building only after the all clear is given by emergency personnel.

Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers in academic and residential buildings are inspected and maintained by EHSLO. If a fire extinguisher is discharged in your area, please contact EHSLO at 713-348-4444 so the extinguisher may be replaced.

General Emergency Procedures

1. Notify everyone around you of the emergency situation.

2. Call Rice University Police Department (RUPD) at 713-348-6000. By calling RUPD they will dispatch officers to the scene and Rice Emergency Medical Services (REMS) if needed.

  • If Houston Fire Department response is needed, RUPD will contact them directly.
  • Be sure to tell RUPD dispatcher your location and clearly describe the incident.
  • If the incident involves chemicals, biological material, or radioactive material, you should also notify Rice Environmental Health Safety and Laboratory Operations at 713-348-4444.

3. Evacuate the area, if necessary.

Medical Emergencies

  • Call Rice University Police Department (RUPD) at 713-348-6000. By calling RUPD they will dispatch officers to scene, Rice Emergency Medical Services (REMS), and Houston Fire Department EMS if needed.
  • When the injury or illness involves a chemical, a Safety Data Sheet should accompany the person to the emergency center.
  • Students who incur a minor injury during normal class/working hours can be referred to the Student Health Services, 713-348-4966.

Reporting

For reporting safety concerns, near misses, accidents, and injuries to EHSLO follow the guidelines HERE.