Chief Tom Levy and Deputy Chief Michael MacDermott join Massachusetts Public Safety Secretary Bennett, college, fire and building officials, and fire safety advocates at the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester this morning to launch College Fire Safety Month.
The campaign focuses on the safety of off-campus housing for college students. While on-campus housing is afforded the colleges’ assurance of working fire alarm systems and sprinklers, officials are concerned with ensuring the safety of those students living off-campus.
State Fire Marshall Ostroskey said, “Moving into a new apartment is the best time to make sure the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working and to develop an escape plan that includes two ways out. Young adults have the responsibility to protect other residents in the building by keeping the smoke alarms in good working order throughout the year.”
According to the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services, “since 2016, 100% of all campus related fire deaths have occurred in off-campus housing. Five college students aged 19-22 have died in Massachusetts off-campus housing fires in the past decade. Lack of working smoke alarms or a second exit was a factor in these deaths.” This year’s campaign, “The Best Roommates Evah! Working Smoke Alarms and Two Ways Out” focuses on these two critical safety components.
The Bridgewater Fire Department is proud to be a part of College Fire Safety Month. As home to the second largest State University in the Commonwealth, we partner with Bridgewater State University year-round to ensure the safety of its on and off-campus students.
Throughout the month of September, the Bridgewater Fire Department will promote the Best Roommates Evah! campaign with educational videos and safety tips via social media and outreach programs. You can follow BFD on Twitter @BwaterFD and on Facebook at Bridgewater Fire Department.
For additional information on Campus Fire Safety, please visit the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services.