National Campus Fire Safety Month

September is National Campus Fire Safety Month. On September 24, 2008 on the campus of Georgia Tech in Atlanta, there is going to be a fire safety fair in the Library parking lot. There will be fire extinguisher training, smoke detector give-aways, and a mock dorm room burn.

We want the students to understand the seriousness of a fire and to be more conscious about fire and life safety.

The Center for Campus Fire Safety, National Fire Protection Association, Underwriters Laboratories, U.S. Fire Administration, The Atlanta Fire Department and The State Fire Marshal's Office will be there to help promote the cause of fire and life safety.

Peace & Blessings,

Mike

Educate than Regulate

As a Fire Marshal I work in an industry that is focused on public safety. I've been in the Fire Service for 28 years, mostly as a firefighter. I have seen some things that I will carry with me to my grave. Somethings you have no control over, you just accept it and move on.

However, if you have the opportunity to make changes and you choose not to then you are a contributor to the problem. Years ago I heard someone say "There are three people in your life that your going to meet, those that heard what happened, those that saw what happened, and those that make things happen. Which one do you want to be?

I know for a fact that most fires that have occurred could have been prevented through awareness and education. Tell someone what a hazard is and they will subconsciously be aware of what they are doing wrong. I would rather educate someone on the dangers of fire than have to regulate them. Regulating can be ugly, especially when your ego says "I'm perfect, I don't make mistakes."

If you haven't attended a fire safety class on campus then I'm here to tell you that you are missing out on a great class that will maybe save your life or someone that you care about. Don't be reactive, be proactive and learn this valuable life saving tool. Don't put it off until tomorrow, sign up today and make it happen.

Peace & Blessings,

Mike

Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know signed by President Bush

The Higher Education Act, which contains provisions from the Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know Act introduced by Congressman Pascrell (NJ-8) and Senator Lautenberg (NJ), was signed into law on Thursday, August 14, 2008, by President Bush.The Campus Fire Safety Right-to-Know Act will require colleges and universities to report fire safety information annually to the U.S. Secretary of Education and to make this information available to the public. This includes information such as how many fires, deaths and injuries have occurred; how many beds are protected by automatic fire sprinklers and fire alarms and how much fire prevention training is provided.
This landmark legislation was first introduced in 2001 and has been under consideration in every session of Congress since then. In a prepared statement, Congressman Pascrell said, “I would also like to recognize the dedication of Campus Firewatch and the Center for Campus Fire Safety over the last 8 years to help provide information, advocate our cause and organize the support Senator Lautenberg and I needed to move this legislation through Congress.“

Fire Safety

Practicing the proper use of a Fire Extinguisher in Fire Safety I on June 26, 2008.

Fire Safety I

One in three persons will have an experience with fire during his or her lifetime. Are you sure you know what to do in case of fire? Do you know how to use a fire extinguisher? Do you know when not to use an extinguisher? This fast-paced program will help you make better choices in emergency situations...at work and at home. You'll also learn some basic tips to reduce the likelihood of a fire in your work area or home.



Fire Safety I is a required class in the Emergency Preparedness Certificate program. Visit http://www.training.gatech.edu for information about this and other safety-related training classes.