Policy

When staff know for certain that a fire alarm has been inadvertently triggered, they may cancel the call. A false alarm may be caused by burning food or someone pulling the fire alarm.

Rationale

A false alarm may delay the fire department from arriving at another emergency.

Procedure

1. Begin evacuation procedures.
2. Confirm that it is a false alarm. If there is any doubt, or if the evacuation of staff and/or patrons is well underway, proceed with the evacuation and wait for the fire department.
3. Only if you are positive that there is no fire or other danger:
   1. IF you have a personal ACS code (most staff do not), call ACS (Alarm Central Station) 503-641-6761.
   2. Give them the authorization code on your white ACS card.
4. Call Facilities Dispatch at 503.988.3779 and tell them the alarm is false.  If you have called ACS, let Dispatch know. Dispatch may give you instructions for turning off the audible alarm siren.
5. Do not call 911. ACS will call the Fire Department to cancel the call. The fire department may still respond.
6. Dispatch may need to send someone to reset the alarm system or contact the landlord to do so for our leased buildings.