Fire Safety Off Campus

As the new school year is ready to start students are moving into their off campus apartments. Ohio leads the nation in students killed in off campus fires.  Since 2000 a total of 13 students died.  Nationally 78% of all fatal fires, involving college students occurred off campus. Why did these students die and what could have prevented these fires. Many students are leaving campus housing for the first time. One of the major differences is in fire safety.  The on campus housing units have fire alarms systems maintained by the university and students do not have to take an active roll in making sure they are in working order.

All students should as six basic questions before signing a lease

1. Are fire sprinklers present in the building ?

2. Are smoke detectors in all bedrooms and on all floors ?

3. Do basement bedrooms have egress windows ?

4. Do I have renters insurance ?

5. Does the building have fire extinguishers ?

6. When was the last fire inspection ?

Fire Safety Check list for Off Campus Students.

1. Are there working smoke alarms ?
2. How old are the smoke alarms ?
3. How often are the smoke alarms check and batteries changed ?
4. Are there at least two ways to exit your living space and building ?
5. Do the upper floors have a fire escape or ladder available for each bedroom?
6. Are the living unit doors fire doors ?
7. Are fire extinguishers available and working ?
8. Were the fire extinguishers tested last year ?
9. Is the electrical wiring adequate ?
10. Is a sprinkler system installed ?
11. Is the building regularly inspected by the local fire department ?
12. What is the owner's policy and method for correcting safety problems in the building ?
13. Has there ever been a fire in this building, and what was the cause ?
14. Does the residence have an electric or gas stove/oven ?
15. Do you know how to use the appliances correctly ?
16. Where is the nearest fire hydrant on the street ?
17. Did the school recommend the unit for student housing ?
18. Is the owner in good standing in a landlord/tenant association or other housing association ?
19. Has the city or university received any safety complaints regarding this building ?

Fire Safety Tips

• Install smoke alarms on every level and ensure that they are working

• Know two ways out of the building

• Never disable the smoke alarms for any reason

• Learn how to use a fire extinguisher before you need it

• Make sure that smoking material are properly extinguished.

• Check the furniture after parties for smoldering cigarettes

• Do not overload extension cords

• Do not connect multiple extension cords

• Do not route cords under carpets

• Cook only in the designated area

• Never pour water on a grease fire

• Keep surfaces clean of grease

• Limit open flames in living areas

• Keep candles in sturdy holders and away from bedding

• Never leave candles or incense unattended

• Leave the building immediately if there is a fire

• Call 911 from outside

• Memorize the number of doors to the nearest exit