As a freshly-minted college student living, there are plenty of things you are now responsible for for the first time in your life, such doing laundry often enough to have clean socks and fire safety. Fire safety may sound a bit gloomy, but according to the U.S. Fire Administration since 2000, 86 fatal fires claiming 123 lives have occurred in Greek, on- and off-campus housing, with over 80 percent of incidents occurring in off-campus housing.  In order to ensure a safe college experience, here are a few fire safety tips:
  • Only cook where it’s allowed, such as the kitchen or the special BBQ area set up by your community.
  • Make sure your cooking area is clean and clear of flammables. Don’t leave oven mitts or kitchen towels on top of lids that are still on the fire.
  • Check that appliances work properly and don’t have damaged cords or plugs that can short circuit. Don’t leave them plugged in when you’re not using them.
  • Don’t wander off when you’re cooking. You risk losing track of time. If you’re nearby, even if something lights up, you can put it out immediately
  • Educate yourself on the proper way of dealing with fires, especially small, common kitchen fires. For example if oil lights up, do not pour water over it. Turn off your stove and cover the pot with a lid. The lack of oxygen will starve the fire. If something blazes up in the microwave, unplug the unit and keep the door closed.
  • Keep candles in stable holders and away from flammables (ie. polyester curtains, paper, etc.).
  • Never leave candles unattended. Consider using flameless candles, especially since many student housing communities prohibit traditional candles.
  • Although college life relies heavily on improvisation at times, always be safe. Do not overload outlets, and avoid using extension cords as much as possible. Avoid them altogether with large appliances such as refrigerators.
  • Keep all light fixtures away from flammables. Make sure lamp shades are not made from flammable materials and don’t try improvise one by putting colored scarves on light bulbs.
  • Make sure cigarettes have always been properly put out in deep, wide ashtrays. Avoid smoking inside and when you’re tired or have had alcohol.
  • You never know who shows up at college party and what they do. When guests leave, check that all cigarettes and butts have been properly disposed of. Check under cushions and furniture, inside trashcans.
  • Post fire prevention tips/rules in visible and high traffic areas of your apartment, dorm room and in community areas, especially before social gatherings, so people know what rules to adhere to
  • Familiarize yourself with the building’s layout and at least two exits, as well as the proper way to report a fire to emergency units
  • While prevention is the safest way to go, always have a back-up plan. Renter’s insurance is a great way to give yourself that extra peace of mind. Accidents do happen, and the last thing you need to worry about in case of a fire, is how you’ll be able to pay for all your lost electronics and books.