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About Us

The Beginnings...

Campus Fire Safety Month was first launched in 2005 when a group of parents who had lost children in campus fires sent a letter to all fifty governors asking them to sign a proclamation designating September as Campus Fire Safety Month.  Twelve governors responded to this request, which then grew to 32 states in 2008In addition, resolutions were passed in the U.S. House and Senate recognizing National Campus Fire Safety Month.

2008

A launch was held on Capitol Hill in 2008 that brought together students from the University of North Carolina and the University of South Carolina, parents who had lost children in campus fires, fire safety advocates and fire officials from across the nation. A press conference was held with Members of Congress and then teams of students, parents and advocates spread out on Capitol Hill in a series of meetings with Congressional staffers.

 

Campus Fire Safety Month has served as an incentive for schools across the country to reach out to their students and teach them the importance of knowing how to avoid having a fire or, if one should break out, what to do.  Each year there are thousands of fires both on- and off-campus at our nation's campuses, and it is critically important that students be made aware of their personal responsibility.  It is also vital that parents be involved in helping their children select fire-safe housing.

2009

A coalition of people dedicated to helping protect and educate students has once again come together to plan for the 2009 launch on Capitol Hill. Made up of nationally recognized experts, volunteers and advocates from organizations such as the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill Fire Department, Congressional Fire Services Institute, Ohio Fire Safety Coalition, Common Voices and Campus Firewatch, this group is working hard to make 2009 another success. Again, teams of students, parents, advocates and fire officials will be spreading out on Capitol Hill to meet with Members of Congress and staffers.

Are you interested in having your school involved?

If you would like to join with us on Capitol Hill on September 17, there are a limited number of openings available to take part in this grass-roots movement.

If you or your school are interested, here are a few important facts to keep in mind:

    • You will be responsible for all expenses involved with transportation, meals and lodging. We are negotiating with an area hotel for preferred rates right now.
    • There will be a mandatory briefing the evening of September 16 (exact time is to be determined but plan on it being around 4:00 pm).
    • You must be available for the entire day of September 17
    • Professional attire will be required for all participants.

Contact Ed Comeau at [email protected] or 413-323-6002 for more information.

Why is this important?

"Talk to your kids," implored Kimberly Wencl, who lost her daughter, Liz, in an off-campus fire at the University of Minnesota. "They think they are invincible at this age, but they aren't. We all have a responsibility as parents, schools and communities, but in the end it all comes down to our children taking responsibility for their own safety and actions, but only if they know what to do.  Talk to them."