Every year nearly 5,000 Americans die in fires. Fires cause thousands of disabling injuries and cost millions of dollars in property damage. Fires may be prevented by recognition and elimination of fire safety hazards. This memo provides guidelines to prevent accidents, injuries, and unsafe situations due to fire hazards.

The following are prohibited:

• Open flames (i.e. candles and smoking)
• Highly combustible materials (such as live trees & bales of hay)
• Any combustible material hanging from the ceilings
• Flammable wrapping paper on doors
• Decorations near or covering lights or light fixtures
• Use of frayed or modified extension cords
• Electrical wires through or underneath door frames or carpets
• "Daisy chained" extension cords
• Non-UL approved holiday lighting
• Any holiday lighting that cannot be documented to be less than 3 years old
• Fragrance plug-ins (i.e. Glade)
• Outside lighting not approved by Physical Plant

Small decorations that are not flame resistant can cover no more than 10% of the wall space. Decorations or furniture must not be placed in locations that block, obstruct, or reduce exit and entrance routes. For example: beads, paper or plastic strips, etc.

Physical Plant, Residence Life and Public Safety will disconnect unattended electrical decorations, remove any apparent unsafe or flammable decorations, and report any potential problem areas to the Director of Public Safety for necessary guidance and action.

We need your cooperation to enjoy a safe holiday. Thank you for your cooperation.