Prevent Fire Damage in Campus Housing

Heading off to college is an exciting time for many young adults. It often marks the first taste of independence and freedom, as students move into college dorms, Greek housing, or off-campus apartments. However, with this newfound freedom comes a heightened responsibility, particularly when it comes to fire safety. On average, 3,800 house fires occur in college housing each year, making it crucial for students and their parents to understand the risks and implement fire safety measures.

A startling statistic reveals that 94% of fatal college fires occur in off-campus housing. This is often due to relaxed rules and oversight compared to college dorms. The less structured environment can lead to lapses in safety, making it all the more important for students to be vigilant. With the new semester approaching, now is the perfect time to educate yourself or your child about fire safety. Below are some essential fire damage safety tips every college student should know.

Cooking Fire Safety

Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home cooking fires and it’s easy to see why. College students are often juggling multiple responsibilities, leading to distractions. However, when it comes to cooking, attention is critical.

Always Stay Alert: Remind your college student to cook only when they are fully awake, alert, and sober. A quick nap or a phone call can easily lead to disaster if a pot is left unattended on the stove.
Never Leave the Kitchen: It’s vital to stay in the kitchen when boiling or frying foods. A few seconds can be the difference between a safe meal and a kitchen fire.
Stock No-Cook Foods: For those late-night study sessions, consider stocking up on foods that don’t require cooking, such as snacks or ready-to-eat meals. This reduces the risk of accidental fires.
Follow Dorm Rules: Many college dorms restrict the use of certain cooking appliances, such as toasters and hotplates, due to fire risk. Microwaves, which don’t use exposed heating elements, are generally safer and often allowed.

Candle Fire Safety

Candles can create a cozy atmosphere and are often used for their pleasant scents. However, they also pose a significant fire risk if not used carefully.

Adhere to School Policies: Always check the school’s rules on burning candles. If candles are allowed, ensure they are burned only on flat surfaces, and at least 12 inches away from flammable materials.
Extinguish Before Leaving: Never leave a candle burning unattended. Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to bed.
Consider Alternatives: For those who want the ambiance or fragrance without the fire risk, consider using air fresheners or flameless candles. These options provide a safer alternative without compromising the atmosphere.

Smoking Fire Safety

Smoking is one of the leading causes of fatal campus fires. If you or your child smokes, it’s essential to do so responsibly.

Designated Areas Only: Always smoke in designated smoking areas. Smoking in prohibited areas, such as inside dorms or apartments, increases the risk of fire.
Properly Extinguish Materials: Make sure to extinguish smoking materials properly, using an ashtray or a deep can of sand. Simply tossing a cigarette butt in the trash can lead to a smoldering fire.
Never Smoke in Bed: Smoking in bed, particularly when tired, is extremely dangerous. Many fires have started this way, with tragic results.

Fire-Safe Housing

Choosing fire-safe housing is one of the most important steps you can take. Whether living on or off campus, certain precautions should be in place.

Ensure Smoke Alarms and CO2 Detectors Are Present: Fire-safe housing should have working smoke alarms and CO2 detectors outside each sleeping area and on every level. These devices are crucial in providing early warnings of fire or carbon monoxide leaks.
Never Disable Alarms: Never remove the batteries or disconnect smoke alarms, even temporarily. These devices are your first line of defense in case of a fire.
Identify Escape Routes: Always identify two ways out of every room and keep them clear of furniture or other obstacles. Familiarize yourself with the facility's fire escape route and practice it until it becomes second nature.
Consider Sprinkler Systems: Housing with sprinkler systems provides an added layer of safety. September and October are peak months for fires in dorms, so it’s essential to be prepared.
Choose Reputable Landlords: Some landlords may prioritize profit over safety, especially in areas near college campuses. Ensure that the housing you or your child chooses is up to code and well-maintained.

Electronics Fire Safety

In today’s digital age, students rely heavily on electronics. However, these devices also pose potential fire risks.

Charge Devices Safely: Avoid charging cell phones or laptops on bedding or other soft surfaces. The reduced airflow can cause devices to overheat and catch fire.
Use Space Heaters Cautiously: If using electric space heaters, keep them away from flammable materials and plug them directly into an outlet. Never use an extension cord, as this can increase the risk of electrical fires.
Avoid Overloading Circuits: Many college buildings are old and may have outdated wiring systems. Overloading outlets with multiple devices can lead to short circuits and fires. Use power strips with built-in surge protectors and avoid daisy-chaining power strips together.

By following these fire damage safety tips, college students can significantly reduce the risk of fire-related incidents. Whether it's being mindful while cooking, smoking responsibly, or choosing fire-safe housing, these precautions can help ensure a safe and successful school year.

If you or your college student ever face fire damage, ServiceMaster Dynamic Cleaning is here to help. With over 25 years of experience and certified technicians, we provide 24/7/365 support to restore your home to its pre-fire condition. Don’t hesitate to contact us for professional fire damage restoration services.

Fire Safety Tips for College Students