The Newman Hall fire a few weeks ago is an example that precautions must be taken to prevent another incident…one that could be much worse. The Champaign and Urbana fire departments will be hosting a program called “Fire Factor.” Here, 50 University employees, housing and dormitory staff and fraternity and sorority leaders across campus will be trained with fire safety techniques. Champaign Deputy Fire Marshall Janet Maupin says the program is essential for fire education.

“We have a limited number of resources and people to go out and teach fire safety on campus. so by enabling the students that go through our fire academy we’re really challenging them to go back and help us spread the fire safety message. we’re able to reach many more people.”

A dorm room burn simulation, searching through a smoked-filled room and using a fire hose and extinguisher are just some of the lessons this hands-on training academy will feature. Fire Factor will be held Saturday morning at the University of Illinois Fire Service Institute. The academy began in 2005 and their fourth program here at U of I.