New Canaan Fire Marshal Offers College Fire Safety Tips

NEW CANAAN, CT — New Canaan Fire Marshal Paul Payne has provided a list of essential fire prevention tips for students heading off to college this fall.

In a Facebook post Tuesday, Payne acknowledge the new school year approaching, during which many young adults will be getting ready for college.

"While students and parents have spent time researching schools for the best academic experiences," Payne said on Facebook, "it's also crucial to think about safety, especially fire safety."

According to Payne, around 4,000 fires break out each year in college housing, including dormitories, fraternities and sororities. Over 80 percent of college fire fatalities happen in off-campus housing, with most fires occurring between 5 p.m. and 11 p.m.

Cooking is the leading cause of dormitory fires, followed by smoking and unattended candles. Notably, about 25 percent of campus fire fatalities occur after parties, Payne said.

Preventing fires from starting and ensuring early detection is key to safety, according to Payne.

The following fire prevention tips were shared to the New Canaan Fire Marshal Facebook page:

Smoke Detection

* Ensure working smoke detectors on each level and in every bedroom of the building. Dorm rooms should have smoke detectors in the living areas of suites.
* Never disable smoke detectors or remove their batteries.

Cooking Safety

* Cook only in approved areas with approved equipment—no hot plates in dorm rooms!
* Never leave cooking unattended.
* If there's a fire in the oven or microwave, keep the door closed.
* Keep the cooking area clear of flammable items.

Electrical Safety

* Avoid using extension cords or overloading outlets. Make sure there are enough outlets for all appliances, computers, printers, etc.
* Use only surge protectors or power strips with internal overload protection if necessary.
* Keep lamps, fixtures, and light bulbs away from flammable materials.

Candles and Smoking

* Smoke outside in designated areas and discard smoking materials in approved containers.
* After parties, check for cigarette butts under cushions as furniture can catch fire easily.
* Ensure candle holders are sturdy and won’t tip over.
* Never leave candles unattended.
* Opt for battery-operated candles whenever possible.

Your Escape

* Plan your escape route. Know two ways out of the dorm, and follow exit signs in hallways.
* Keep bedroom doors closed.
* Exit the building immediately when the fire alarm sounds.
* Participate in fire drills.
* If a door is hot, don't open it.
* Stay low and crawl under the smoke to escape.

"For those living off-campus, choose housing with a fire sprinkler system, redundant smoke detection, both hardwired and battery-operated, and good maintenance [and] housekeeping practices," Payne said. "Stay safe and have a great school year!"