Here are some tips to help make your workplace safer:

• familiarize youself with your workplace's fire safety plan and evacuation procedure--all employees should know that plan and be required to drill regularly
• know the location of two exits closest to your work area
• keep exits, stairways, and halls clear
• minimize clutter, particularly combustibles such as empty cardboard boxes
• keep flammable liquid storage to a minimum and store only in approved containers away from heat sources
• make provisions for evacuating employees with disabilities by assigning a partner to assist them
• know the location of the nearest fire alarm pull station and how to use it
• always turn off or unplug appliances at the end of each day.
• make sure suitable fire extinguishers are placed in accessible areas throught the building and that all workers know how to use them
• check and replace any electrical cords that have cracked insulation or broken connectors
• never overload outlets or extension cords
• never run extension cords across doorways or under rugs
• keep all appliances a safe distance from combustible materials.
• use only UL Listed tools and appliances
• leave enough space for the circulation of air around heaters and other equipment such as computer terminals and copy machines
• smoke only in areas allowed

What to Do in An Emergency

• go to the nearest exit and close all doors behind you
• never fight a fire if the fire is large or spreading quickly
• if you encounter smoke, consider taking an alternate stairwell/exit; heat and smoke rise leaving cleaner air near the floor; crawl low under smoke
• call 911 immediately regardless of the size of the fire
• once outside, do not re-enter building until fire fighter personnel tell you it's OK

For more information, visit the "Emergency Preparedness and Response" section of the OSHA website.