The Kentucky State Fire Marshal urges parents and college students to implement fire prevention strategies for off-campus student housing.
“Inspecting off-campus housing for potential fire hazards saves lives,” said Mike Haney, Kentucky’s fire marshal and director of the Division of Fire Prevention.
Haney recommends that students regularly change batteries in existing smoke detectors and ensure a detector is installed on each floor and each bedroom. Students should also plan two escape routes from bedrooms, and purchase an escape ladder if necessary.
Haney encourages students to have stoves inspected, to be alert and remain in the kitchen while cooking. Inspecting appliances and avoiding use of numerous extension cords reduces the risk of off campus living fires.