An exhaust fan configured to exhaust air from a building includes a housing, a fan, and a motor for driving the fan. Overlying the fan is one or more dampers that are moveable from a closed position to an open position. Underlying the dampers is at least one pivot arm per damper that is pivotally connected to the fan and which normally assumes a horizontal position spaced from the overlying damper. A mechanical fusible link is connected to the pivot arm and is configured to break in response to a buildup of heat in and around the dampers. Once the fusible link breaks, then the pivot arm is operative to engage and open the overlying damper.