Chemical flame-retardants are used in a variety of products to prevent the spread and occurrence of fire. While fire safety is critical, this family of chemicals, known as Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are highly toxic. They are found in carpeting, foam cushions, polyester clothing and bedding, wallpaper, toys, household dust, a variety…

Campus security and safety is an important feature of postsecondary education. The Department of Education is committed to assisting schools in providing students nationwide a safe environment in which to learn and to keep students, parents and employees well informed about campus security. These goals were advanced by the Crime Awareness and…

Families can take an active role in protecting their homes and themselves from fire by: (1) keeping their homes free of fire hazards; (2) installing, testing, and maintaining smoke detectors; and (3) developing a fire escape plan. (DF)

Designing fire protection into a building is complex; it requires effective coverage, an economical installation, and compliance with many regulations. (Author)

Notes that economic and service factors may dictate that special fire protection measures be given to computer rooms. The discussion covers emergency planning, various types of fire detection and suppression systems, and future options, with particular attention to halon and possible halon replacements. A list of suggested readings is provided.…

Homes in wooded areas or in the wildland/urban interface are at special risk for wildfire. The article provides a checklist of what to keep on hand to make homes safer from wildfire, focusing on vegetation around the home and maintenance of the yard and home. (SM)

Fire safety at Gallaudet College, where all students are deaf, involves prevention, special emergency signals, and evacuation procedures. (Author)

Discusses the importance of home fire escape drills, detailing fire safety plans. Early detection and warning (smoke detectors) coupled with well-rehearsed escape plans help prevent serious injury. Children need to be taught about fire safety beginning at a very early age. (SM)

Discusses two new governing standards from the National Fire Protection Association regarding plastic-coated cables, and other ways to improve cable safety. (EV)

Describes the damage and salvage efforts resulting from the burning of the Los Angeles Central Library in 1986, and makes several recommendations for fire and arson prevention measures and contingency salvage plans. (CLB)

School boards can substantially minimize school bus fires with recently improved fire-resistant materials. Tests comparing fires in buses without resistant materials with fires controllable by protective materials demonstrate that manufacturers should be urged to improve materials. Materials would not prevent fires, but they would buy time to…

In response to legislation, colleges and universities in several states must prepare to install sprinkler systems. Four basic issues an engineering study should examine include: whether the existing water service has the size, capacity, and pressure to support a sprinkler system; whether the protected facility will have to comply with more…

Explores reasons for the decline in the number of fires in college and university residence halls and describes a four-pronged program called PODS (Prevention, Occupant awareness, Detection, and Suppression) to help administrators organize fire-prevention efforts. (EV)

Discusses the importance of maintaining sprinkler systems in school facilities. Provides facts about sprinklers and describes steps to take after accidental discharges. (EV)

Presents fire safety guidelines for parents, including install smoke detectors on every floor; test and maintain the smoke detectors; and plan escape routes. Children must have fire drills and be taught two ways out of the house. The article suggests what to do if a fire occurs. (SM)