Fire prevention and safety tips for UWS students living on campus

Classes at the University of Wisconsin at Superior begin next week, but many students have already arrived on campus.

Before the fall semester begins, however, the Superior Fire Department has an important safety message for all college students. It concerns fire prevention and safety in the dorms, for example in the communal kitchens or bedrooms.

Fire Inspector Caleb Sorvik of the Superior Fire Department says most fires on the UWS campus could easily be prevented.

“So the most important thing is not to party and then cook. Those are our biggest problems. 80% of the fires we see on campuses are cooking related. Most of them happen after a party and there are countless reasons,” Sorvik said. “Either you’re cooking and you’re not paying attention, maybe you were smoking and you fell asleep. There are a whole bunch of different things that can happen, but we want people to take some safety precautions.”

Although academic achievement is paramount, Sorvik says fire safety should also be a concern. There are several safety precautions students can take to prevent fires, and it doesn’t just apply at school.

“Never throw water on a grease fire. That will only make it worse. You have to smother grease, put the lid on the pan, then it will go out,” Sorvik said. “If it’s in the microwave, just leave it closed and unplug it. If it’s a fire, like if your pizza is burnt or there’s something in the oven, just leave the door closed. Turn the heat off.”

Concerned parents would like to inform the school administration that several helpful assistance services are available to students living in the dormitories in the event of a fire.

Harry Anderson, vice chancellor for student affairs and dean of students, says students living on campus can reach out to their residence hall advisor for safety tips throughout the semester.

“Residents will notice upon entering the building that there is a lot of information regarding emergency procedures, evacuation routes, callers and call times,” Anderson said. “We are fortunate that our University Police are instant responders and can respond to any situation that arises almost immediately. Thanks to the partnership and pre-planning we have done with the Superior Fire Department, we know we can provide a safe and effective response as quickly as possible.”

For more information on fire prevention and safety, click here. For more information on creating a fire safety plan for students living off campus, click here.