Fire Safety

The most precious resources at the University of Pennsylvania are the people that study, live, work and enjoy this world-renowned institution. Penn places the highest priority on establishing the safest operational environment for the campus-community; but it must always be remembered, that safety is a shared responsibility. It starts with each individual on campus and expands to encompass the entire Penn community.

Fire and Emergency Services would like to remind you of a few fire safety guidelines to help you stay safe: 

  • Do not hang or place items on sprinkler heads.
    • Fire sprinkler heads are fragile. Be cautious and avoid an activation – don’t bump into or hang anything from a sprinkler head. Sprinkler head damage can lead to a discharge of a large volume of water if activated.
  • Do not disconnect or disable the room smoke detectors.
  • Do not place combustibles on or near the stove top or inside the oven.
    • Keep clutter and all materials away from all cooking implements.
  • No excessive clutter in room or block egress.
    • Keep clutter and all materials away from your escape route – maintain clear exits.
  • Do not leave your electronic devices charging unattended.
  • Household appliances should be plugged directly into an outlet.
    • Use the wall outlets to power any appliances, avoid extension cords for high-power items.
  • Do not piggy-back on power strips or surge protectors.
  • Do not block or place items on top of the heater. Keep clutter and all materials away from any source of heat.

 

The Department of Fire & Emergency Services (FES), in addition to implementing the University’s crisis emergency plan maintains an active partnership with the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Licenses & Inspection, and Fire Department, in order to ensure compliance with all city, state and federal fire and building codes for the University. FES conducts routine inspections of buildings and fire alarms; supervises mandatory evacuation drills; reviews all plans for construction, renovation and installation of fire protection and sprinkler systems; monitors all campus elevators for safe operations; coordinates regular inspections of all elevator emergency phones; conducts pre-event inspections; and provides fire and emergency services trainings for the entire Penn community.

 

Learn more about Fire and Emergency Services (FES), visit our website: https://www.publicsafety.upenn.edu/about/fire-and-emergency-services/

 

VIDEO DESCRIPTION:

On September 30, 2016, the University of Pennsylvania hosted a side-by-side burn demonstration and safety fair. This event was open to the public, with invited guests including area first responders, University administrators, and students of all ages. The Philadelphia Fire Department assisted with the safety and management of the burn, which was also supported by volunteers from the National Fire Sprinkler Association, PenJerDel Chapter and Sprinkler Fitters Local 692.

 

 

E-Mobility Devices

Please note that all e-mobility devices, including e-scooters, e-bikes, and hoverboards, are prohibited in the College Houses. Learn more about scooter safety, including security, fire prevention, and riding guidance, here: Scooter Safety