Industrial shop fire safety

Many school fires occur in industrial shop areas, where flammable liquids and overloaded electrical outlets with frayed cords can ignite and cause burns or shocks. Schools should avoid overloading outlets and take the following safety measures, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety:

* secure compressed gas cylinders in an upright position; avoid dripping, rolling or knocking them together
* never weld in areas where combustible material is stored
* keep work area clean and check daily for fire hazards
* provide suitable waste cans for disposal of oil soaked and paint rags
* use safety cans for storing and dispensing small amounts of flammable liquids
* ensure good ventilation for painting operations and a regular routine for cleaning up overspray residues
* supply suitable and easily accessible fire extinguishers