If you are inside the building:

  • Do not fight the fire.
  • Do not use elevators; use only the stairs.
  • Evacuate the building.
  • As you evacuate, activate the fire alarm system by using an emergency pull-station.
  • Close doors behind you as you leave.
  • Assist others in evacuating. If someone is unable to leave, you should continue to evacuate and alert responders.
  • Go to the Evacuation Assembly Area.

If you are outside the building:

  • Do not enter the building.
  • Call 911.
  • Notify the Harvard University Police Department by calling (617) 432-1212.
  • Assist others once they are safely away from the building and encourage them to remain in the Evacuation Assembly Area.

Tips for reporting smoke, a fire, or an explosion:

  • Remain calm
  • Is anyone injured or trapped?
  • Do you know what may be burning?
  • Are there any other hazards present?

Once you have safely evacuated:

  • Do not reenter the building until given permission by HMS or HSDM.
  • Look for HUPD or Fire Department personnel and provide them any information you may have about occupants still inside the building or about the origin of the emergency.
  • Remain in the Evacuation Assembly Area.
  • Await further instructions from responders or management.

If you must use a fire extinguisher to escape:

  • PULL the safety pin on the grip handle.
  • AIM the nozzle at the base of the fire.
  • SQUEEZE the handles all the way together.
  • SWEEP the extinguisher from side to side.