FACTS
--Fires in dormitories, fraternities, sororities, and barracks are common during the evening hours, between 5-10 p.m., as well as on Saturdays and Sundays. --In 2004--2008 U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated annual average of 3,800 structure fires in dormitories, fraternities, sororities, and barracks.
SAFETY TIPS
--Look for fully sprinklered housing when choosing a dorm or off-campus housing.
--If you live in a dormitory, make sure your sleeping room has a smoke alarm, or you dormitory suite has a smoke alarm in each living area as well as the sleeping room. For the best protection, all smoke alarms in the dormitory suite should be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound.
--If you live in an apartment or house, make sure smoke alarms are installed in each sleeping room, outside every sleeping area, and on each level of the apartment unit or house. For the best protection, all smoke alarms in the apartment unit or house should be interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound.
--Test all smoke alarms at least monthly.
--Never remove batteries or disable the alarm.
--Learn your building's evacuation plan and practice all drills as if they were the real thing.
--If you live off campus, have a fire escape plan with two ways out of every room.
--When the smoke alarm or fire alarm sounds, get out of the building quickly and stay out.
--During a power outage, use a flashlight.
--Stay in the kitchen when cooking.
--Cook only when you are alert, not sleepy, or drowsy from medicine or alcohol.
--Check with your local fire department for any restrictions before using a barbeque grill, fire pit, or chiminea.
--Check your school's rules before using electrical appliances in your room.
SMOKING SENSE
--If you smoke, smoke outside only where it is permitted, use sturdy, deep, non-tip ashtrays. Don't smoke in bed or when you've been drinking or are drowsy.
CANDLE CARE
--Burn candles only if the school permits their use. A candle is an open flame and should be placed away from anything that can burn. Never leave a candle unattended. Blow it out when you leave the room or go to sleep.
All information is referenced from the NFPA Public Education Division. To view this site go to www.nfpa.org/education or click above on Department, then Fire Department, then Useful Links, and then National Fire Protection Agency.