Kids, click on the picture of Sparky to visit him online. You can play fun games and learn all about fire safety.
Week of September 3, 2008 - Dorm & Campus Safety
It’s the time of year when many students are going away to college. Here are some fire safety tips for college students. Please pass this along to any young adults going away to school.
Smoking - Only smoke outside of the building and only where it’s permitted. Use deep, non-tip ashtrays or cigarette disposal containers. Keep ashtrays on a hard sturdy surface. Don't ever smoke in bed or when you’ve been drinking or are drowsy. Soak cigarette butts in water before discarding, and after a party, check around cushions for smoldering cigarettes.
Cooking & Grilling - Never leave cooking unattended, only cook in designated areas and make sure the area is clean and uncluttered. When not in use, unplug electric appliances (hot pots, electric burners, etc.) and do not overload circuits. If a fire breaks out in a microwave, unplug it and keep the door closed. Never remove burning containers from a microwave. If possible, keep a small extinguisher in your room and know the location of building extinguishers.
Check with your school and local fire department (for off-campus housing) before using a grill. Gas and charcoal BBQ grills must only be used outdoors. Position the grill away from siding, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches. Keep any pets and any children away from the grill area. Use long-handled grilling tools. Remove grease or fat buildup in trays below the grill so it cannot be ignited.
Candles - KPVFC recommends that you do not burn candles in dorms, however if you choose to, always extinguish candles when you leave your room or go to sleep. Do not let candles burn down all the way. Discard container candles when 1 / 2 inch of wax remains and taper or pillar candles within 2 inches of their holders. Discard only after they have cooled completely. Use sturdy holders. Keep candles away from any and all combustible materials.
Electrical - Check your school’s rules before using any electrical appliances in your room. Make sure any appliances are tested by an approved testing lab and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Make sure cords are not pinched between walls or furniture and do not run under carpets. Never tack, staple or nail cords and do not overload your receptacles. Make sure bulbs match the recommended wattage on the lamps and fixtures. Place lamps on level surfaces and away from anything that can burn.
Escape Plan - Make sure you know the evacuation plan for your building. Always participate in fire drills and learn the location of all building exits. Remember, smoke rises, so in the event of a fire stay low and crawl to your exit keeping your head no more than 2 feet above the floor. Check doorknobs and doors with the back of your hand, if there is any heat try another escape route. If not, open it slowly and proceed with caution. Never use an elevator during a fire, only use the stairs. If you're trapped and cannot exit from your room, call the fire department for assistance and let them know your location. Seal your door with rags and signal from your window. Smoke alarms save lives; do not remove smoke alarm batteries for any other purposes. Make sure sprinkler heads are not obstructed and never tamper with fire department connections. Respond to every alarm and leave immediately, closing doors behind you as you go. Always take your room key and keep a flashlight handy. If you have a disability, make sure you are included in the escape planning for your classroom areas and housing.
Have a safe and fun school year.
Look for the Fire Safety Tip of the Week in the King of Prussia Courier.
Is your group or organization interested in a fire prevention event? The KPVFC would be happy to help you out. Our fire prevention mascots, Sparky and Flow, will teach children about fire safety and how to stop, drop & roll.
For more information contact fire prevention coordinator Robin Ross at 610-265-1063.