NFPA issues college fire safety tips

Each year, thousands of structure fires occur in on- and off-campus housing, according to the National Fire Protection Agency. The Quincy, MA-based agency this week released a series of safety tips to prevent such fires.

Be prepared:

• Choose housing with full sprinkler systems and make sure smoke alarms are inside each bedroom, outside each sleep area and on each level.
• Test alarms monthly. Never remove batteries or disable alarms.

Escape:

• Be sure you have an escape plan with two routes out of every room.
• If you cannot safely get out, close the door and seal vents and cracks around the door with towels. Call 911 and signal for help out the window.

Smoking:

• Only smoke outdoors or in designated smoking areas. Never smoke in bed.
• Before going to bed, check cushions and carpet for cigarette butts
.

Cooking:

• Cook only where permitted. Check for restrictions on barbecue grills or fire pits.
• Plug cooking appliances directly into an outlet -- never use an extension cord.

Candles:

• Never leave candles unattended. Always blow them out before leaving the room.
• Use a flashlight in emergency situations rather than candles.