Local Fire Regulations

• Familiarize yourself with current local fire codes
• Seek assistance from fire department and insurance inspectors
• Meet all fire safety recommendations without delay

Fire and Safety Inspections

• Establish regular fire department inspections
• Perform monthly fire and safety inspections
• Familiarize yourself with safety systems each school term

Fire Detection/Alarm Systems

• Install automatic "hard-wired" fire detection systems
• Install "central station monitored" fire alarm systems
• Regularly test and maintain all safety systems

Fire Doors and Flammables

• Install approved fire doors as recommended
• Prohibit "wedging open" of any fire doors
• Prohibit abuse of fire protection equipment
• Store flammables outside in well-ventilated areas

Lighting and Exits

• Install automatic battery powered emergency lighting
• Install automatic battery powered lighted exit signs
• Equip all exits with emergency "crash bar openers"
• Keep all exitways clear of any storage and clutter

Regular Fire Drill Procedures

• Conduct fire drills each school term
• Post emergency evacuation plans in each room
• Post emergency phone numbers on each phone
• Designate specific, safe outside meeting place
• Immediately account for all house occupants and visitors

Heating and Electrical Inspections

• Schedule professional inspections each year
• Have repairs promptly performed by professionals
• Establish regular maintenance and service contracts

Electrical

• Do not overload circuits; use grounded (GFIC) outlets
• Do not use multi-outlet or frayed extension cords
• Prohibit the use of halogen light fixtures

Chapter House Security

• Improve chapter house locks
• Install exterior lighting
• Provide supervision and security during vacant periods
• Establish fire and security inspection each night

Kitchen and Cooking Protection

• Regular professional cleaning of cooking areas
• Install and regularly service automatic fire suppression systems
• Regularly service and maintain portable fire extinguishers

Control Smoking

• Establish "No Smoking" rules in sleeping areas
• Provide proper receptacles in designated smoking areas
• Clean and inspect for hazards immediately after functions

Social Event Clean-Up and Inspections

• Use non-flammable party decorations
• Clean up immediately following all social events
• Check trash disposal areas and furniture for fire hazards

Install Sprinkler Systems

• Sprinkler systems greatly reduce risks of death and injury
• Sprinkler systems reduce property damage by 50-66%
• Sprinkler systems save lives and reduce insurance costs

Winter and Vacations

Extreme Weather Conditions

• Closely supervise property during extreme weather conditions
• Regularly inspect for frozen pipes and other damage

Heating and Mechanical Systems

• Check for proper operation, venting and automatic shut offs
• Promptly and professionally perform needed maintenance and repairs

Maintain Heat / Drain Water Systems

• Maintain heat during unoccupancy and extreme conditions
• Shut off and drain water supply during unoccupied periods

Wood Burning Fireplaces

• Have chimneys cleaned at least annually
• Do not use flammable liquids to start
• Keep fireplace enclosed
• Keep combustibles clear of hearth

Caution with Portable Heaters

• Use only Underwriters' Laboratory approved electrical units
• Keep heaters away from combustibles
• Maintain proper ventilation
• Do not leave unattended / unplug when not in use

Springtime Property Checkup

• Professionally inspect roofs for damage to prevent leakage from causing serious water damage.
• Check roof drains, downspouts, yard drains and catch basins to be certain they are undamaged, clean and free running.
• Check exterior faucets, yard sprinklers, and water control valves for frost, vandalism, vehicle, or other damage.
• Have regular professional inspections and maintenance performed on all mechanical and electrical systems.
• Perform thorough interior/exterior house cleaning. Remove any winter debris, dead brush, leaves, trash, etc. from around the house.
• Plan summer/vacation chapter house repairs and maintenance, including vacation security and supervision.
• Promptly perform repairs and preventative maintenance.