Campus Fire Safety Month is a reminder that fire safety doesn’t end at the campus boundary. The Office of Environmental Health and Safety encourages students living in residence halls, apartments, houses or Greek housing to take simple steps to protect themselves and their roommates.
Key fire-safety reminders:
- Make sure smoke alarms work. Test alarms regularly and report any missing or damaged units.
- Know two ways out. Identify multiple exits and make sure everyone in the household knows the escape plan.
- Consider fire safety when choosing housing. Look for working smoke alarms, fire sprinklers and accessible exits.
- Keep escape routes clear. Hallways, stairways and exits should be free of clutter and obstructions.
- Close doors behind you. Closed doors can help slow the spread of fire and smoke.
- Practice cooking safety. Stay in the kitchen while cooking and never use water on a grease fire.
- Use electricity safely. Avoid overloading outlets, using damaged cords or connecting power strips together.
- Charge batteries responsibly. Follow manufacturer instructions and avoid charging damaged devices.
- Know your landlord’s responsibilities. Ask about smoke alarms, fire protection systems and emergency exits before signing a lease.
Take a few minutes to inspect your living space, test smoke alarms and identify two ways out.