Mansfield University Home PageFEMA Grant Used to Improve Fire Safety Training
November 13, 2008
MANSFIELD, PA— Mansfield University has received a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to purchase new training equipment and materials in order to improve fire safety training on campus.
According to the FEMA, fire-related emergencies have been on the increase on 
campuses nationwide. Most of these emergencies are due to a lack of knowledge of fire safety and prevention.
Jim Welch, Environmental Health & Safety coordinator at MU, received the grant and has acquired an electronically controlled pan style burner that uses clean burning propane, multiple training fire extinguishers, a carrying case for all equipment and a remote power source to provide field training sessions.
According to Welch, previous methods of hands-on fire extinguisher training used chemicals that produced toxic smoke which risks to participants and the environment. The new method is uses water instead of chemicals in the extinguishers. The controlled propane flame is also safer to use.
“Many people see fire extinguishers everyday in work and at home, but few have ever used one,” Welsh said. “This will provide a chance for people to experience the feel of a fire extinguisher and will prepare them for a fire emergency at work or home.”
Training will be provided to people on campus and in the community using National Fire Protection Association materials. “This is a cooperative effort which will allow the university and the Mansfield Hose Company to work together to help make a safer community to live in,” Welch said. “I hope to demonstrate that we are leaders in fire safety for this area, using technology and resources provided through the Department of Homeland Security. Providing this type of training will enhance the overall fire safety of Mansfield University and establish our procedure as a ‘best practice’ for university fire extinguisher training through the PASSHE (Pennsylvania State System of higher Education) system.”
In addition to his duties at MU, Welch has served with the Mansfield Hose Company for 20 years and is in his fourth year as the Fire Chief.
For more information on fire prevention and keeping your home and work place safe, check online at nfpa.org
