Campus Fire Safety Month kicks off
The Maryland State Fire Marshal has announced September as Campus Fire Safety Month.
According to the latest numbers, 80 percent of college-related fires happen in off campus apartments or homes.
We’re told things like unattended candles can sometimes be a factor.
Kristine Adams, president of Adams Housing in Salisbury, says college students make up about 60% of her agency’s clientele. Adams says even if fire detectors or extinguishers are provided, the dismantling of fire alarms is another issue.
“I think they just frustrated when they hear a beeping when they burn something on the stove and it starts beeping and if they’re in a hurry, they’ll be run and pull the smoke detector down”, Explains Adams. “Or they’ll take the battery out because they ran out of batteries for something else like a remote control or something and then before you know, it just becomes an afterthought.”
Officials from the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s Office say there are a number of ways students can keep safe:
– Test smoke alarms monthly and replace the batteries as needed.
– Look for housing that is equipped with automatic sprinkler systems. Not every residence hall or rental property has them.
– Know at least two ways out of every room and the building.
– If smoking is allowed, designate an area outside. Properly dispose of smoking materials in sturdy ashtrays and ensure they are completely extinguished. Just in case, always check cushions in chairs and sofas for smoldering cigarettes.
– If using extension cords, use only approved laboratory listed cords such as UL®, and don’t overload the electrical outlets.
– Consider using flameless candles or battery operated lights instead of regular wax candles.
– If using regular candles, never leave them or other open flame type devices unattended and keep combustibles away from their location at all times. Always extinguish the flame prior to leaving the room.
– Cooking should only occur in permitted locations. Never leave cooking food unattended.
– If using a barbeque grill, fire pit, chiminea or other outdoor open flame device, check out the local regulations beforehand. When these items are used improperly, an enjoyable time can quickly turn into a tragedy.
