Chemical accidents, leaking gas, faulty equipment, or explosive devices could all be the cause of life-endangering explosions. Explosions usually result in falling debris and structural damage that can cause serious injuries. Explosions often accompany or follow fires, floods, and power outages and vice versa.

If inside the building

• Seek cover under a desk, table or other heavy furniture which can provide protection from flying glass and debris
• Remain inside the building until it is safe to exit. DO NOT USE ELEVATORS.
• While exiting, pull the fire alarm, check for fire, note other hazards and any remaining personnel
• Take your emergency supplies, car keys, purse, and/or wallet and other personal items, if it is safe to do so
• Consult the Evacuation Procedure section of this booklet for additional instructions
• Call 9-911 from Stanford University phones (911 from non-campus phones) and give the following information:
  • Your name
  • Telephone number
  • Location of the explosion (building, floor, room number, etc.)
  • Materials involved in explosion, if known
  • Description of the situation

Note: Do not hang up until the dispatcher advises you to disconnect

• Check in at the designated Emergency Assembly Point (EAP) for the building you are in and report any noted hazards or remaining personnel

If trapped in office with exit blocked

• Call 9-911 from Stanford University phones (911 from non-campus or cell phones) and give the following information:
  • Your name
  • Telephone number
  • Location of the fire or area blocked (building, floor, room number, etc.)
  • Severity of fire or blockage

Note: Do not hang up until the dispatcher does

• Be prepared for possible further explosions; crawl under a table or desk for protection
• Stay away from windows, mirrors, overhead fixtures, filing cabinets, bookcases, and electrical equipment
• Do not use matches or lighters
• If smoke or fire is present:
  • Wedge cloth material along the bottom of the door to keep out smoke
  • Close as many doors as possible between you and the fire
  • Consult the Fire Procedures section of this booklet for additional information

If outdoors on campus

• Stay clear of buildings, trees or other falling hazard areas
• Proceed to the designated Emergency Assembly Point (EAP) for the building you are in and check in

Should you become trapped in debris

• Stay calm
• If a window is available, place an article of clothing (shirt, coat, etc.) outside the window as a marker for rescue crews
• If there is no window, tap on a pipe or wall so that rescuers can hear where you are
• If possible, use a flashlight to signal your location to rescuers
• Avoid unnecessary movement so that you don’t kick up dust
• Cover your nose and mouth with anything you have on hand to prevent breathing in dust and other debris. (Dense-weave cotton material can act as a good filter. Try to breathe through the material.)
• If possible, use a whistle to signal rescuers
• Shout only as a last resort (to prevent dust inhalation, tiring too quickly, or losing your voice)