Causes of Fires on College Campuses

This might sound a bit weird, but what are the top two most common causes of fires on college campuses? Just trying to be prepared and ensure personal safety when I get there!

I'm glad you're prioritizing safety and proparing ahead of time! According to the National Fire Protection Association, the two most common causes of fires on college campuses are cooking equipment and intentionally set fires (which are often the result of pranks gone wrong).

Cooking equipment-related fires occur most often because many students, especially those living in dorms, may not be accustomed to cooking for themselves. These can be entirely preventable by not leaving cooking equipment unattended and being careful with flammable items such as paper towels or oven mitts nearby.

Intentionally set fires are typically the result of pranks or vandalism, although they can also stem from more troublesome sources like disgruntled students or staff. These can be prevented through vigilance and immediate reporting of any suspicious activities to campus security.

Besides these causes, smoking materials like cigarettes can also be a substantial fire risk if not properly extinguished and discarded. So by being mindful when cooking, reporting any suspicious activities, and taking care while using things like cigarettes or candles, you can help ensure a safe environment on your college campus.