Maryland Accident Law Blog
At the University of Maryland in College Park, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a national warning cautioning college students to be careful about fires on campus.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission chose the University of Maryland at College Park as the venue for issuing the warning because it is known as a leader in fire safety.
The National Fire Protection Association says that each year, 46 students sustain burn injuries in college fires, while about 7 students end up dead. Property damage is about $25 million annually.
The top causes of college fires are burning candles and cooking.
In the last two years, two people have died in Maryland in college-related fires—both fires occurred off campus.
The NFPA and CPSC say:
• Most college fires that result in injuries take place in sleeping areas.
• Electrical products, halogen lamps, and portable headers are common causes of college fires.
The U.S. Fire Administration cites numerous causes of college-related fires, including:
• Improper use of 911 notification systems delays emergency response.
• Student apathy is prevalent. Many of us are unaware that fire is a risk or threat in the environment.
• Evacuation efforts are hindered since fire alarms are often ignored.
• Building evacuations are delayed due to lack of preparation and preplanning.
• Vandalized and improperly maintained smoke alarms and fire alarm systems inhibit early detection of fires.
• Misuse of cooking appliances, overloaded electrical circuits and extension cords increase the risk of fires.
Fires can lead to serious burn injuries that can result in nerve damage, scarring, disfigurement, great pain, psychological and emotional trauma, and other catastrophic injuries.
If you or someone you love was seriously injured in a fire in Maryland or Washington D.C. because another party was negligent, you should speak to a personal injury attorney right away.
College Dorm Fires On The Rise, WJz.com, August 21, 2007
Fire Safety 101: Colleges and Universities, US Fire Administration
Related Web Resources:
Get Out and Stay Alive: A Program for College Campus and Student Fire Safety, FEMA (PDF)
US Consumer Product Safety Commission
Jack Lebowitz and Vadim Mzhen are experienced trial and personal injury lawyers that know how to successfully handling burn injury claims and lawsuits. We also represent family members that wish to file wrongful death claims because they have lost a loved one in a fire. Contact Lebowitz and Mzhen today and ask for your free consultation.