Fire Safety for College Students – September is School Safety Month

As September marks the beginning of a new academic year, the Guilford Fire Department is joining fire departments nationwide to remind students and parents about the critical importance of fire safety in dormitories and off-campus housing. College life brings newfound independence, but it also comes with responsibility—especially when it comes to fire prevention. Whether you're moving into a dorm or apartment, taking simple precautions can save lives.

Fire Statistics in College Housing

According to data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Center for Campus Fire Safety (CCFS), U.S. fire departments respond to an average of 3,379 structure fires annually in dormitories, sororities, fraternities, and other housing on and near campuses. These fires result in significant injuries and millions of dollars in property

damage. Cooking, electrical malfunctions, smoking, and improper use of lithium-ion batteries are the leading causes of fires in college housing. A staggering 86% of these fires are caused by cooking, with many occurring during late-night hours or after parties.

Key Safety Tips for Students

While these statistics are alarming, there are several easy steps students can take to significantly reduce their risk of a fire-related incident. As students prepare to settle into their dorms or off-campus housing, the following fire safety recommendations should be kept in mind:

1. Cooking Safety:

Always stay in the kitchen while cooking. Set a timer if necessary.

Never cook when drowsy or after consuming alcohol.

Keep flammable items—like towels, paper, and food packaging—away from stoves and ovens.

Know how to handle a kitchen fire. If a microwave or stove fire breaks out, keep the door closed and unplug the appliance.

2. Electrical Safety:

Avoid overloading outlets or power strips with appliances.

Use only surge protectors with built-in overload protection.

Never plug large appliances, like refrigerators or microwaves, into extension cords.

3. Lithium-Ion Battery Safety:

With the increasing use of devices like e-bikes and e-scooters, it is crucial to follow charging safety guidelines. Always use the charger provided with the device, and never leave batteries charging overnight.

Stop using any device if the battery begins to overheat or show signs of damage, such as swelling, excessive heat, or unusual smells.

4. Smoke Alarms and Fire Suppression:

Smoke alarms should be installed on every floor and in all sleeping areas. Test alarms monthly and never disable them, even temporarily.

Familiarize yourself with the building’s fire alarms, fire extinguishers, and evacuation routes. It is crucial to know at least two ways out of the building.

5. Candle and Smoking Safety:

Never leave candles unattended, and always use flameless options when possible.

If you smoke, do so outdoors. Be sure to extinguish cigarettes completely in sturdy, deep ashtrays away from flammable materials.

Dorm Fire Safety Regulations and Evacuation Plans

Many colleges have rigorous fire safety measures in place, but it is up to students to ensure they are adhered to. Schools are required to install automatic fire sprinkler systems and regularly test smoke alarms. In the event of a fire alarm, evacuate the building immediately—never assume it's a false alarm. Knowing the building’s evacuation plan and identifying alternative routes can make a difference during an emergency.

Additional Precautions for Off-Campus Living

Students living off-campus should be even more vigilant about fire safety. Off-campus housing is often less regulated than dormitories. Be proactive by inspecting your living space for fire hazards, such as faulty wiring, blocked exits, or missing smoke detectors. If you notice a hazard, alert your landlord or property manager right away.

Encourage Fire Safety Education

We urge parents and students to talk about fire safety and review the resources available from organizations like the NFPA and CCFS. Share fire safety guidelines with your roommates, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your local fire department with questions or concerns. The Guilford Fire Department is here to help residents ensure a safe start to the school year.

By working together and taking responsibility for fire safety, we can prevent fire-related tragedies and keep our college students safe. For more information on fire safety in dorms and off-campus housing, visit [NFPA Campus Safety](https://www.nfpa.org/campus-safety).

Stay safe this school year!