Fire and life safety at Missouri Western State University is a shared responsibility that involves the awareness and participation of the entire campus community. Through collaboration between Facilities/Physical Plant, emergency responders, and the Office of Risk Management, the University works to promote a safe environment for employees, students, and visitors while also supporting the preservation of state property.

Fire safety affects every building and every individual on campus. Knowing what to do before an emergency occurs is one of the most important steps in preventing injury and minimizing damage.

Ask yourself:

• Do you know where the nearest exits are located?
• Do you know where the nearest fire extinguisher is located?
• Do you know what the fire alarm sounds like?
• Do you know what to do in the event of a fire or emergency evacuation?

Being prepared ahead of time can make a major difference in keeping yourself and others safe.

To support campus fire and life safety, all members of the campus community should keep the following in mind:

• Candles, incense burners, oil lamps, and other open-flame or smoldering items are prohibited.
• Keep combustible material storage to a minimum and ensure it is stored appropriately.
• Ensure decorations are hung in a safe manner and do not interfere with fire/life safety equipment, alarms, sprinklers, or exits.
• Extension cords may only be used temporarily (less than 8 hours) and power strips should never be “daisy chained.”
• Ensure electrical panels remain clear and accessible.
• Know the location of fire extinguishers and ensure they are not blocked.
• Know the location of emergency exits and ensure corridors and exit doors remain unobstructed at all times.

The Office of Risk Management supports campus fire and life safety efforts through collaboration, training support, and emergency planning. Services may include:

• Supporting campus-wide emergency evacuation planning and fire drill coordination
• Providing guidance and consultation related to fire and life safety awareness and preparedness
• Assisting with identification and communication of observed fire safety concerns
• Coordinating with Physical Plant regarding reported hazards, corrective actions, and safety improvements
• Supporting building-level preparedness through programs such as Building Coordinators
• Assisting with communication and coordination related to fire inspections and emergency response planning

Fire detection, alarm, and suppression systems across campus are maintained and supported through coordination with Facilities/Physical Plant and qualified vendors. Missouri Western works with appropriate contractors, regulatory agencies, and emergency response partners to support compliance with applicable codes and standards, including fire alarm and suppression system testing and inspection requirements.

The University coordinates with external agencies and authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs), including the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office and local fire departments, to support fire prevention initiatives, periodic inspections, and emergency preparedness planning.