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Prevention

Campus Safety

College life brings new freedom and responsibility, but everyday choices can help prevent fires and burns. Use these simple tips to stay safe in dorms, apartments, and shared housing.


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Everyday Prevention Tips

Cook Responsibly

  • Never leave cooking unattended. 

  • Keep paper towels, dishcloths, and other combustibles away from stoves. 

  • If a pan fire starts, carefully slide a lid over it and turn off the heat. 

  • Use small appliances only on approved surfaces and unplug them when not in use. 

Smoke Safely

  • If you smoke, do so only outside and where permitted. 

  • Never smoke in bed or when drowsy. 

  • Use deep, sturdy ashtrays and always put cigarettes out fully. 

Use Electricity Carefully

  • Don’t overload outlets or extension cords. 

  • Use UL-listed power strips with built-in circuit breakers. 

  • Keep cords away from rugs and places where they could be pinched. 

  • Turn off appliances and lights when not in use. 

Candle Caution

  • Never leave candles burning unattended. 

  • Keep candles away from anything that can burn. 

  • Consider safer flameless LED candles. 

The Facts

  • Cooking equipment is involved in 86% of reported dorm fires. 

  • Fire departments respond to an average of 11 dorm fires every day. 

  • Dorm fires are more common between 5–11 p.m. and on weekends. 

  • Each year, dorm fires cause on average: 

    • 1 civilian death 

    • 32 civilian injuries 

    • $14 million in direct property damage 

  • Between 2000–2015, 89 fires on campuses, in Greek housing, and offcampus housing killed 126 people. 

  • From 2003–2013, the number of reported campus fires rose by 24%. 

The Fix: If a Burn Happens 

  1. Cool the burn with cool (not cold) water. 

  2. Remove clothing and jewelry from the injured area. 

  3. Cover with a clean sheet or bandage. 

  4. Seek medical attention. 

Disclaimer and Usage 

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The materials on this page, ameriburn.org/prevention/burn-prevention-fact-sheets/campus-safety, are the property of the American Burn Association (ABA) and are protected by U.S. and international copyright laws. These fact sheets may be reproduced, shared, and distributed without charge for non-commercial, educational purposes. Co-branding with your organization's name or logo is permitted; however, the ABA logo may not be removed, altered, or replaced without prior written permission from the American Burn Association.

These materials are provided for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The ABA assumes no responsibility for any injury or damage.