Majority of Campus Fires Occur in Off-Campus Housing

Olympia – The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office advises parents that most of the college housing fires and fatalities since 2000 have occurred in off-campus housing.  Colleges and universities around the country have made fire safety in on-campus housing a priority; however, there are no guarantees of proper maintenance and fire safety measures in private buildings surrounding campus. 

To increase student safety in off-campus housing, the following tips are provided:

• Look for housing that is equipped with fire sprinkler systems, working smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide alarms.
• Look for clearly labeled exit ways, and ensure exits ways are clear and unobstructed.
• Look for secured, undamaged electrical outlets that are not overloaded with extension cords or multi-plug adaptors.
• Be familiar with the building emergency evacuation plan, and know two ways out to a safe location. 

For more information, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at 360-596-3929.