By Associated Press

BERLIN — Connecticut Light & Power is warning college students about potential electricity hazards as they return to their dorms, rented homes, fraternities and sororities.

Denise Ducimo, safety manager of the Berlin-based utility provider, says the buildings often have older wiring that was not designed to handle today’s multitude of electronics and appliances.

They are warning against overloading outlets and letting notebooks or other flammable items get too close to appliances. They also advise students not to leave on lights and other items that could overheat, or to use electrical cords anywhere near water.

The National Fire Protection Association says more than 5,600 fires are reported on average each year on U.S. school and college campuses. Cooking equipment is a leading cause.

• 1
• 2

• 1
• 2
• 3

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• See Full Story

• Return to Paging Mode