# Illinois State Promotes Campus Fire Safety Month

Illinois State University, in collaboration with state and local fire safety agencies including the Illinois State Fire Marshal's Office and the Normal Fire Department, is leading efforts to promote Campus Fire Safety Month in September 2026. This initiative highlights fire prevention measures such as the installation and maintenance of working smoke alarms, fire sprinkler systems, and safe handling of lithium-ion batteries in on- and off-campus student housing. Illinois continues to set a national example through legislation like the Fire Sprinkler Dormitory and Greek Housing Fire Safety Acts, which mandate fire sprinkler protections in dormitories and fraternity/sorority housing. Procurement professionals and contractors involved in fire safety equipment, installation, and maintenance should note the ongoing emphasis on fire safety compliance and potential demand for related services in Illinois higher education institutions.

- **Why this matters:** Illinois' leadership in fire safety regulations for campus housing signals sustained procurement opportunities for fire safety systems and related services
- Agencies and contractors should consider the impact of state fire safety mandates on campus housing infrastructure projects and maintenance contracts
- Organizations can leverage this awareness campaign to align offerings with state and local fire safety priorities, especially regarding fire sprinklers and lithium-ion battery safety
- Contact points are available for engagement: phone 217-685-2041 and email jc.fultz@illinois.gov for Campus Fire Safety Month inquiries

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Public Safety
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 06, 2026

### Government Entities
- Illinois State Fire Marshal's Office
- Normal Fire Department
- Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board
- Office of the Governor of Illinois

### Key Quotes
> College students are balancing busy schedules, new responsibilities and life away from home, but taking a few minutes for fire safety can make all the difference. Lithium-ion batteries power many of the devices9 students rely on every day, and when they are damaged, improperly charged or used incorrectly, they can create a serious fire risk.
> — Michele Pankow, Illinois State Fire Marshal

> Through the Fire Sprinkler Dormitory and Greek Housing Fire Safety Acts9enacted in 2005 and 2011, respectively9Illinois has been a national leader in ensuring students living on college and university campuses are protected by fire sprinkler systems in dormitories and fraternity and sorority housing.
> — Erik Hoffer, Executive Director, Northern Illinois Fire Sprinkler Advisory Board

### Sources
- [State and Local Fire Safety Partners Join Illinois State University to Promote Campus Fire Safety Month](https://www.illinois.gov/news/press-release.32907.html) - IL