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Fire Safety 101A Factsheet for Colleges & Universities

A USFA Public-Private Partnership

STOPSFIR

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WITHY

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EEvery year college and university students experience a growing number of fire-related

emergencies. There are several causes for these fires, however most are due to a generallack of knowledge about fire safety and prevention.

The United States Fire Administration (USFA) offers these tips to help reduce and prevent theloss of life and property in dormitory and university housing fires.

THE FACTS

In cases where fire fatalities occurredon college campuses, alcohol was a

factor. There is a strong link betweenalcohol and fire deaths. In more than50% of adult fire fatalities, victimswere under the influence at the time

of the fire. Alcohol abuse often impairsjudgment and hampers evacuationefforts. Cooking is the leading causeof fire injuries on college campuses,

closely followed by careless smokingand arson.

THE CAUSE

Many factors contribute to the problemof dormitory housing fires.

Improper use of 911 notificationsystems delays emergency response.

Student apathy is prevalent. Manyare unaware that fire is a risk orthreat in the environment.

Evacuation efforts are hindered sincefire alarms are often ignored.

Building evacuations are delayed

due to lack of preparation and pre-planning.

Vandalized and improperly main-

tained smoke alarms and fire alarmsystems inhibit early detection offires.

Misuse of cooking appliances, over-loaded electrical circuits and exten-sion cords increase the risk of fires.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Provide students with a program forfire safety and prevention.

Teach students how to properly notify

the fire department using the 911system.

Install smoke alarms in every dormi-tory room and every level of housingfacilities.

Maintain and regularly test smokealarms and fire alarm systems.Replace smoke alarm batteries everysemester.

Regularly inspect rooms and build-ings for fire hazards. Ask your local

fire department for assistance.

Inspect exit doors and windows andmake sure they are working properly.

Create and update detailed floorplans of buildings, and make themavailable to emergency personnel,resident advisors and students.

Conduct fire drills and practiceescape routes and evacuation plans.Urge students to take each alarm

seriously. Do not overload electrical outlets and

make sure extension cords are used

properly.

Learn to properly use and maintainheating and cooking appliances.

For More Information Contact:

The United States Fire AdministrationOffice of Fire Management Programs16825 South Seton AvenueEmmitsburg, MD 21727

Or visit the USFA website:www.usfa.fema.gov

March, 1998