Know your building's evacuation plan

As college students prepare to go to school for the fall term, federal officials warned students to take measures to protect themselves from fires in student housing, both on- and off-campus.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) chairman revealed that college housing units are more at risk of fires than other types of housing for the general population.

Federal officials on Tuesday, Aug. 21, released a report of the National Fire Protection Association which highlighted an increase in college housing fires: in 1998, there were only 1,800 fires, but in 2005, there were 3,300 fires. From 2002 through 2005, there were 39 deaths and 400 injuries arising from fires in dormitories, fraternities, sororities and barracks.

The officials attributed the increase to the students’ tendency to cram more electrical equipment into their rooms. Hot plates and microwaves were responsible for most of the fires; however, fatalities were due to fires caused by smoking or unattended candles.

It should be noted though that the NFPA report did not include off-campus fires. Media reports last year pointed out that off-campus fires were the most deadly. Citing media reports, the CPSC chairman said that the bigger cause of death and injury to college students are off-campus fires.

Fire prevention measures on campus have been closely monitored, but off-campus housing is not. Off-campus housing is a difficult issue for university officials to address. This implies that parents and the students should take a more active role in examining potential places to stay. They should look for safety devices like sprinkler systems, carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, and two bedroom exits.

CPSC and NFPA issued some tip to guide students in dorm safety:

1. Microwaves and hot plates have caused 72% of dorm fires. Students should use the equipment in designated cooking areas only, and should never leave them unattended. Make sure to unplug equipment immediately after use.

2. Most deaths and injuries happen in sleeping areas, and are associated with smoking materials like tobacco products, candles, and incense. Always put flames out when about to sleep or to leave the room.

3. Electrical products, portable heaters, and high-wattage lighting have caused a lot of dorm fires. Keep combustibles away from heat sources and don't overload electrical outlets, extension cords, and power strips.

4. Be sure you are familiar with your building's evacuation plan in case of fire.

5. Make sure all alarms are working and in good condition.