College students at Hofstra University learned that fire safety starts before they even finish moving in. Director of Residential Life Novia Ramsay and fire‑safety expert McNulty shared the most common dorm‑room hazards and how to prevent them.

National context

According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than 3,300 fires occur each year in dormitories, fraternity and sorority houses, and other student housing nationwide. Those incidents result in roughly 20 deaths and $21 million in property damage annually.

Key hazards and how to avoid them

• Never hang items on sprinklers. Sprinkler heads are not decorative hooks; covering them can delay fire suppression.
• Avoid “daisy‑chaining” extension cords. Connecting multiple cords creates a spark risk. Use a single cord with an on/off switch and keep cords out of rugs or under furniture.
• Keep exit paths clear. Propping doors open can reduce clearance by 12–16 inches, making evacuation difficult, especially at night.
• Check curtain fire‑resistance. Verify campus housing policies before hanging fabric decorations; some schools prohibit certain materials.
• Practice lithium‑ion battery safety. Stick to reputable brands for laptops and phones, and use designated outdoor charging stations for e‑bikes and e‑scooters, which account for a large share of campus battery fires.
• Leave candles and open flames at home. Candles are the most dangerous dorm fire source; never leave them unattended.

What campuses are doing

At Hofstra, resident assistants monitor rooms throughout the semester, and formal health‑and‑safety checks occur at least once each term. The New York State fire marshal also conducts a semester‑long inspection. The university emphasizes community responsibility: “You’re responsible for your own safety, but also for the safety of those in your immediate space and those that live on your floor and in the building,” Ramsay said.

Practical checklist for students and parents

• Keep sprinklers and fire‑safety equipment unobstructed.
• Do not connect extension cords together.
• Avoid running cords under rugs.
• Maintain clear doors and exit pathways.
• Review residence‑hall rules before bringing appliances such as microwaves.
• Confirm campus requirements for curtains, tapestries, and other fabric décor.

For more detailed guidance, consult the National Fire Protection Association’s dorm‑fire checklist.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.