Preventing classroom fire hazards for new teachers

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – In an effort to enhance fire safety awareness, the Shreveport Fire Department has introduced “Fire Prevention Friday,” a series of informative posts that will focus on a different fire safety topic each month.

This month’s theme centers on back-to-school safety, providing valuable tips for teachers, parents, and students to ensure a safe learning environment.

According to the most recent data

from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), US fire departments responded to an estimated 3,230 structure fires in schools each year from 2014 to 2018. A whopping $37 million in direct property damage a year.

Although the majority of school incidents are due to arson, limiting preventable fires remains a objective for the department.

In the classroom, the Fire Department encourages teachers to keep all doors and at least one window accessible for emergencies.

They also recommend using UL or FM certified flame-retardant products on window curtains and combustible decorations.

Educators are advised to limit the use of extension cords, avoiding placement under rugs, along walls, or through ceilings, and to restrict artwork and teaching materials to no more than 20% of wall space.

For safety around the school campus, the department emphasizes the importance of familiarizing oneself with the school’s emergency response protocols and fire evacuation procedures.

This includes knowing the locations of fire extinguishers and fire alarm pull stations. It is also crucial to keep hallways, stairways, and exits clear of combustible items and storage. Schools are encouraged to conduct fire drills at least once a month, with full participation from teachers, students, and staff, treating each drill as a genuine emergency.

At home, the Fire Department advises families to install smoke alarms near all sleeping areas and on every level of the house, testing them monthly to ensure functionality.

It is important for families to develop a comprehensive fire escape plan that includes multiple exit routes and a designated safe meeting place outside, encouraging regular practice of the plan.

The Fire Department also highlights the importance of educating children on safe cooking practices when home alone.

They recommend limiting snacks to items that do not require heating and advise using only microwaves for cooking.

Children should be reminded never to place metal items in the microwave and to take immediate action during a fire by turning off the microwave, unplugging it, and leaving the door closed.

The Shreveport Fire Department hopes that these fire safety tips will foster a safe and successful school year for all.

They remind the community to prioritize fire prevention as an essential mission.

For more information, contact the SFD Fire Prevention Bureau. 318-673-6740 www.shreveportfire.org