Structure Fires in Dormitories, Fraternities, Sororities and Barracks

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Structure Fires in Dormitories, Fraternities and Barracks

The annual number of fires in dormitories, fraternities, sororities and barracks reported to U.S. fire departments has been higher in recent years than any time prior to 2000.

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Fact sheet

This printable fact sheet includes quick stats from the Structure Fires in Dormitories, Fraternities, Sororities and Barracks, as well as the fire loss clock, which tells how often fires happen.

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Report highlights

• In 2011-2015, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated annual average of 4,100 structure fires in dormitories, fraternities, sororities, and barracks. 
• These fires caused annual averages of 35 civilian injuries, and $14 million in direct property damage.   
• 87% of the reported structure fires involved cooking equipment. The vast majority of fires were specifically reported as contained or confined to cooking equipment.
• Structure fires in dormitories, fraternities, sororities, and barracks are more common during the evening hours between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., and on weekends.

More information

• Read NFPA's campus and dorm fire safety tips. (PDF)

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