On Sept. 8, 2026, the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance (TDCI) and the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) recognized Campus Fire Safety Month as college move-in season brings students back to campuses in Tennessee and across the nation.
The campaign raises awareness about fires in on- and off-campus housing. This year’s spotlight is safe cooking and lithium-ion battery safety. This article restates the public TDCI/SFMO announcement and adds general renters-insurance context. Informational only — no coverage or eligibility promise.
Seasons change. So should your coverage. For a free policy review, call 865-263-1400 or visit asigtn.com/get-a-quote/.
By All Seasons Insurance Group
What is Campus Fire Safety Month, and who recognized it in Tennessee?
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Observance | Campus Fire Safety Month (each September) |
| Tennessee announcement | Sept. 8, 2026 (TDCI + SFMO) |
| 2026 focus | Safe cooking; lithium-ion battery safety |
| Cited national stats | Jan. 2000–Aug. 2026: 94 fatal campus/Greek/near-campus fires; 134 victims |
| More tips | tn.gov/fire; Campus Fire Safety checklist |
State Fire Marshal and TDCI Commissioner Carter Lawrence reminded students to create a fire-safe environment on or off campus and to practice safe cooking and battery habits.
What fire risks does the 2026 campaign spotlight?
Safe cooking practices and lithium-ion battery safety — two areas TDCI says can reduce fire risk where students live, study, and gather.
What campus fire statistics does TDCI cite?
From January 2000 to August 2026, 94 fatal fires occurred on a college campus, in Greek housing, or in off-campus housing within three miles of campus, claiming 134 victims, according to the TDCI/SFMO announcement.
What cooking safety tips does TDCI share for students?
- Stay alert and present. Do not cook if you’re tired or drowsy from medicine or alcohol. Stay in the kitchen when frying, boiling, grilling, or broiling. Turn off the burner if you leave.
- Keep flammables — oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, towels, curtains — away from the stovetop.
- If you live in a dormitory, make sure sleeping rooms and living areas have smoke alarms; interconnected alarms are best.
- Keep a lid nearby for small grease fires. Turn off the burner. Do not move the pan. If in doubt, get outside, close the door, and call 9-1-1.
What lithium-ion battery tips does TDCI share?
- Review campus policies before charging e-bikes or e-scooters indoors.
- Buy listed products with a safety certification mark.
- Use only the charging equipment provided with the device; stop charging once full; never charge overnight or with damaged chargers/batteries.
- Keep batteries away from extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, and flammable items; never block an exit with charging or stored devices.
How does renters insurance relate to campus fire safety?
A dormitory or landlord building policy typically does not replace a student’s own renters or personal-property coverage for belongings damaged by fire or smoke. TDCI’s renters tips and our renters companion keep that conversation separate from fire-code tips. Informational only.
Where can Tennesseans find more fire safety resources?
Start at tn.gov/fire and the Campus Fire Safety Month checklist. Insurance shopping or complaint questions still go through TDCI Consumer Insurance Services as a separate path.
Does this article promise fire coverage or eligibility?
No. It restates a public TDCI/SFMO safety announcement. Individual policies vary. Call 865-263-1400 or use asigtn.com/get-a-quote/.
Seasons change. So should your coverage.
Source links
- TDCI, State Fire Marshal Recognize September as Campus Fire Safety Month
- Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office — tn.gov/fire
- Campus Fire Safety Month checklist (Center for Campus Fire Safety)
- TDCI Shares Tips for Renters of All Ages
- TDCI renters insurance tips (ASIG companion)
- TDCI Life Insurance Awareness Month tips
- Get a Quote — All Seasons Insurance Group
