In support of National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA)  2024 Fire Prevention Week, Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) is sharing important information about smoke detectors and fire safety.  

Smoke Detectors On Campus 

Smoke detectors are a critical component of our overall fire safety strategy, providing the early warning needed to help prevent injuries and save lives. It is crucial that these devices are not tampered with. Tampering with or disabling smoke detectors not only violates campus safety policies but also puts lives at serious risk. These devices are designed to detect even the smallest traces of smoke, giving you the valuable seconds needed to evacuate in the event of a fire. 

On campus it is essential that you: 

• Never disable or cover smoke detectors. 
• Notify the Facilities Customer Service Center (FIXX) if you notice any smoke detectors on campus are malfunctioning or need attention.  
• Familiarize yourself with the sound of smoke detectors in your living and work areas and take any alarm seriously, evacuating the building immediately when one is activated. 

Smoke Alarms At Home 

In addition to smoke detector safety on our campus, the importance of having working smoke alarms in the home is also a critical component of fire safety strategies. According to NFPA, smoke alarms reduce the risk of dying in a home fire by about 50 percent. Roughly three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with either no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.  

At home, follow these key safety tips for proper use of smoke alarms: 

• Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area (like a hallway), and on each level (including the basement) of the home.  
• Make sure smoke alarms meet the needs of all family members, including those with sensory or physical disabilities. 
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month by pushing the test button. 
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or if they stop responding when tested.  

Fire Safety Resources 

Fire safety is a shared responsibility. Prioritize safety and protect each other by respecting the vital role smoke detectors play in our lives. You can access fire safety resources on the NFPA Fire Prevention Week webpage and the EHS Fire Safety webpage.  

To support fire safety awareness, Environmental Health & Safety is offering hands-on fire extinguisher training at 41 Ninth Street. Sign up in advance through Percipio to join a 30-minute session on October 23, October 29 or November 12.