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Fire Safety & Weather Emergencies

For many students, moving off-campus is the first time they are living independently. Fire safety is often the last thing students think about. See below for helpful tips on fire safety and protection.

  1. Don’t tamper with smoke alarms.
  2. Know how many doors there are from your bedroom to an exit, know alternate exits, and keep exit routes clear.
  3. Sleep with your bedroom door closed; this helps to hold back heat and smoke.
  4. Do not smoke in bed and be careful using portable heaters.
  5. Take out the garbage or recycle old newspapers because they burn quickly.
  6. Does the same fuse blow all the time? Call your landlord for an electrician and remove items from that outlet.
  7. Do not store flammable liquids (i.e. propane gas, lighter fluid, etc.) in the home.
  8. Check with the landlord before using a gas or charcoal grill on your patio or balcony.
  9. Remember to respond to all alarms even if it is 4:00 A.M. in the morning. Get out of your bed and evacuate… it might save your life.
  10. Designate a meeting place outside so you will know if anyone is still in the house or apartment. If you are missing a roommate, let police or fire rescue know. Do not go back into a burning building.
  11. Plan a drill and see how long it takes you and your roommate to evacuate safely.

10 Steps to Prepare for a Weather Emergency

  1. Prepare a Disaster Supplies Kit: 3-7 day supply.
    • a. Essential Items to Include:
      1. Food: Non-perishable items for you and your pet
      2. Water: 3 gallons per person and 1 gallon per pet
      3. Medications: for you and your pet
      4. Protective clothing: Rainwear, sleeping bag, pillow, shoes
      5. Flashlight and batteries
      6. Cell phone charger
      7. Documents: insurance card, birth certificate, ID, Cash (use a waterproof container)
      8. Misc: disposable silverware, plates, plastic bags
  2. Prepare a Personal Evacuation Plan.
  3. Make a communication plan with parents/guardians/family/friends.
  4. Secure your personal items.
  5. Listen to the radio or watch TV for evacuation instructions and updates on the storm path.
  6. Fill your car’s gas tank.
  7. Money – have cash available.
  8. When the storm arrives, listen to the advice of local officials.
  9. Inspect your home for any damages & contact your landlord, family, & friends.
  10. For more information, call the MU Emergency Weather Info Line 732-263-5900 or check with your local borough or municipality.