Off-Campus Student Services

Important Fire Safety Information

This has become a turbulent couple of months for people around the country dealing with fire. In the last couple years campus deaths from fire has hit a new high. Boulder has had 125 students displaced by fire since 1999. Averaging over 10 students a year who, after a fire, don’t have a place to go. Fire danger is on the rise and needs to be a consideration.  Last week the fire at Gold Run condominiums brought the reality of the fires closer to home. The fire displaced approximately 50 residents of which 3 were taken to the hospital. The firefighters found themselves trapped behind flames in a burning upper-level unit when their hose burned through and they lost water, said chief Fire Marshal David Lowrey. The blaze flashed and rushed in behind them, but another firefighter was nearby and came to their rescue, Lowrey said. 5 firefighters had minor injuries and from the fire, but were able to rescue everyone. Luckily no one died in the Gold Run fire. Below are some safety tips and web links to help keep you safe.

http://www.bouldercolorado.gov/fire
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lO4G3lBLa8Q

If you are in a fire, remember that fires spread quickly, early warning and escape plans can double your chance of survival.

• Smoke alarms should have their batteries changed every semester or if it makes a chirping sound.
• You may have only minutes to escape a fire; Fire is fast, move fast
• Know 2 ways out of your home or apartment – in case one is blocked by smoke or heat
• Candles are the number one cause of fires in Boulder! Never leave a candle unattended big or small it’s still a fire
• Crawl low and feel the wall if you get caught in smoke on your way out.
• Purchase Renter’s insurance – it’s inexpensive and landlord’s insurance only covers the structure, not your property
• Remember, YOU are responsible for your own safety. Don’t let it go up in smoke!

FIRE IS FAST
SMOKE KILLS