DORMITORIES AND TEMPORARY LODGING FACILITIES

- Fire Detection and Suppression Systems - Electrical Hazards - Flammable and Combustible Materials - Housekeeping - Occupant Knowledge Print This Page

FIRE DETECTION AND SUPPRESSION SYSTEMS (Return to Top)

• Is each sleeping area protected by an operating smoke detector?
• Does a heat detector or fire sprinkler protect each room?
• Are all interior corridors protected by smoke detectors?

ELECTRICAL HAZARDS (Return to Top)

• When extension cords and other forms of electrical wiring are used, is care taken to insure they are not attached to the building structure, routed through walls/partitions, or draped over doors and windows?
• Tacks, nails, or other materials, which could damage wiring, are not used when hanging holiday or special lighting?
• Are individual room cooking appliances limited to coffee pots and microwaves ovens (exception: those quarters having approved kitchen facilities)?
• Light switches and circuit breakers have not been taped or altered to prevent their operation?

FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS (Return to Top)

• Are flammable and combustible liquids and gasses kept in approved flammable storage lockers?
• Is charcoal and lighter fluid kept in metal containers and out of individual rooms?

HOUSEKEEPING (Return to Top)

• Are individual rooms arranged so as not to present hazards, mazes, or obstructions to persons exiting in an emergency?
• Does the arrangement of furniture and other room contents permit the primary exit door from the room to open with at least 32"of clear width?
• Are there excessive wall hangings and decorations which would present an unnecessary fire load?
• Is trash accumulation excessive?
• Are storage rooms kept in a neat and orderly condition?
• Are smoking materials disposed of properly?
• Are ashtrays kept on noncombustible surfaces, away from combustibles, and emptied when needed?
• Are ashtrays of suitable construction and materials for that use?
• Is smoking prohibited in beds?
• Is the use of candles, incense, or other open flame device that produces constant flame prohibited?

OCCUPANT KNOWLEDGE (Return to Top)

• Do occupants know the location and use of:
  1. Fire extinguishers
  2. Fire alarm and pull stations
  3. Emergency exits
• Do occupants know the emergency telephone number and where the telephones are located?
• Have emergency evacuation plans been posted in individual rooms?

The safety information enclosed was compiled from the best sources available to us. The Illinois Fire Safety Alliance and authors cannot assume any liability for its effectiveness in every emergency situation.