Fire safety prevention & preparedness at Governors State University
By Christopher Goodson, Emergency Management Coordinator, Guest Writer
Fire safety is an essential component of campus safety here at Governors State University (GovState). Whether you are a student, staff, a faculty member, or visitor, understanding fire prevention and preparedness measures can help you respond in the event of an emergency.
Fire Safety Preparedness & Preparation
Governors State University provides resources to ensure that students and staff are ready to respond effectively:
· Annual Fire Drills: The Department of Public Safety administers annual fire drills to help familiarize the campus community with evacuation routes procedures and the reunification areas.
· Emergency Exits and Evacuation Routes: Members of the campus community should be mindful of their nearest exits and have an alternative escape route in mind. Elevators are not to be used during a fire drill or an active fire.
· Fire Extinguishers and Alarms: Members of the campus community should be mindful. Learn the locations of fire alarms and extinguishers in buildings you frequently visit.
· Emergency Communication: Members of the campus community can ensure that they receive emergency communication via RAVE by having their most current emergency contact information in their MyGSU Portal.
Fire Safety Prevention
Preventing fires begins with awareness and responsible behavior. Here are some key fire prevention tips for the GovState community:
· Proper Use of Electrical Equipment: Avoid overloading outlets and using damaged power cords. Unplug appliances when not in use.
· Safe Cooking Practices: Never leave cooking unattended, especially in campus housing. Keep flammable items away from stoves and hot surfaces.
· Candle and Smoking Policies: Open flames, including candles, are not allowed in university buildings. Governors State University is a Smoke Free Campus.
Campus Fire Safety Resources
Governor State University’s Department of Public Safety works in collaboration with other department to enhance fire safety measures. Fire safety inspections, awareness campaigns, and emergency response trainings are continuously updated to ensure a safe environment for all.
For more information on fire safety at Governors State University, please see the Fire Safety Homepage, as well as the 2024 Annual Security & Fire Safety Report.