A small fire started on Feb. 2 in College Park Commons after an exhaust fan overheated over a stove, according to Fire Chief Clyde Tinner of the Vigilant Hose Fire Co.

“Two of the biggest causes of accidental fires are unattended cooking and careless smoking. Students should be attentive when cooking,” Tinner said. “In addition, if they are smokers they should consider smoking outside and properly disposing of cigarette butts.”

To keep SU students safe, Tinner gave some fire safety tips:

If a fire occurs, students should dial 911 and only attempt to extinguish the fire if it is small and they are comfortable using a fire extinguisher.

For cooking fires, if the pan on the stovetop is on fire, try covering it with a lid. If there is something on fire in the oven, shut the oven off and keep the door closed.

To practice fire safety, students should have a fire escape plan, on and off campus. It is important for students to have a working smoke detector outside sleeping areas and know how to use a fire extinguisher if one is available.

Use caution when using alternative heating sources during winter months. Allow a clearance around all sources of heat so other furnishings do not catch on fire.

Smoke detectors should be present and working in all housing. Smoke detectors should be checked at least twice a year when you change your clock with daylight savings time.

All detectors have a “test” button. You should press and hold the button until the detector sounds.

As fire chief, Tinner works in operational and administrative work.

“I am very fortunate to have the assistance of many individuals that give their time to our all-volunteer department,” Tinner said. “All the fire departments in Shippensburg are all volunteer. Our members work fundraising events, attend training and meetings and run calls for assistance.”

To figure out fire safety plans in your residence hall or apartment building, talk to your property owner or person in charge of your building.

Share