As the clock winds down on 2015, party-goers are more likely to be sharing spaces with large crowds, and West Virginia University Fire Service Extension experts remind you to be mindful of surroundings and exit areas in the event of an emergency.

“There is an important reason why city fire marshals cap an area’s occupancy,” Mark Lambert, WVU Fire Service Extension director, said. “If crowds exceed capacity for the building, it can lead to multiple dangerous scenarios, like constricted exits or structure collapses that could trap guests inside or result in people getting trampled.”

West Virginia’s fire fatality rate is three times higher than the national average. Whether partying at a residence or business, Lambert says the most important party accessory is a good game plan.

“Taking a minute to familiarize yourself with exits can save a life when it comes to an emergency situation,” he said. “It only takes seconds for a situation like a fire to escalate. Be smart. Be prepared. Be proactive.”

Safe exiting procedures don’t exist solely for fire related emergencies, Lambert added. Tragedy is also a possibility in cases of mass hysteria, which occurs when a real or imaginary fear of danger spreads rapidly through crowds of people causing widespread panic and chaos.

“Anytime you have large crowds or people trying to exit quickly there are risks of injuries or fatalities,” said Lambert. “It’s one thing if fire is a threat—but it’s just as dangerous when people panic and scramble to get out quickly and disorderly.”

Lambert warns that people who hosts home parties or attend a party at a friend’s house often feel immune to the dangers that those who go out on a holiday face.

“Safety issues exist in every situation. It’s a matter of being aware and prepared,” Lambert said.

If hosting a large gathering, party hosts should establish smoking guidelines to avoid unintentional fires caused by cigarette butts and improperly deposited ashes. Be mindful of the amount of people allowed in their residence, which is typically noted in a city code, an apartment lease or another official contract or document.

“It might seem rude to turn away guests if you’re noticing the party is larger than anticipated,” Lambert said. “But it’s dangerous to exceed capacity for what the space can safely hold, particularly with older structures, where there’s a higher risk of structural issues and collapses. If you need more space, rent a facility that’s designed to safely accommodate large amounts of people.”

If an emergency strikes, Lambert said the worst thing to do is panic.

“If you’re in a public facility, move in an orderly fashion towards that exit,” he said. “You might be tempted to run and shove your way to the front of the line. Remember that everyone has a better chance of getting out safely if the crowd remains calm.”

If you’re at a house party and a small fire breaks out, use a fire extinguisher and have another guest call 9-1-1, said Lambert.

“Evacuate the home calmly, account for your guests, and do not enter the home again until it’s deemed safe by fire authorities,” Lambert said.

As always, Lambert reminds all residents to regularly check and replace smoke alarm batteries, especially if planning to host large get-togethers.

For general information and tips on fire safety, contact WVU Fire Service Extension at 304-269-0875 or visit fireservice.ext.wvu.edu.

-WVU-

bd/12/29/15

CONTACT: Cassie Thomas, WVU Extension Service
304.293.4221, Cassie.Thomas@mail.wvu.edu

Follow @WVUToday on Twitter.