“After the Fire: A True Story of Heroes and Cowards” Movie Screening and Fire Safety Open Forum

October 22, 2015

An RA is pictured (right) participating in a recent fire prevention/suppression training event.

The risk of fire is ever-present at colleges and universities across the country. According to the Center for Campus Fire Safety, from January 2000 to present there have been 89 fatal fires documented that occurred on a college campus, in Greek housing, or in off-campus housing within 3-miles of the campus - claiming a total of 126 victims. Don't let this happen to you - join us for a free movie screening and open forum to learn how to be fire-safe.

The movie, titled "After the Fire: A True Story of Heroes and Cowards," chronicles Alvaro Llanos and Shawn Simons, two freshman attending Seton Hall University, who were survivors of a deadly fire in their residential hall.

For 15 years since the fire, their motivation has been to advocate for fire safety and prevention so other students avoid the pain they suffered. Additionally, they strive to be the voice of many burn victims across the country who may feel "trapped in their new skin."

Alvaro and Shawn's story is one of survival, perseverance, inspiration, hope, courage and friendship. They aspire to reassure students and professionals that life provides many obstacles that can be overcome by drawing strength, knowledge, and motivation from friends, family and colleagues. Through the use of these tools in life's endeavors they prove that there is life "After the Fire."

Sponsored by the Old Dominion University Offices of Fire Safety and Emergency Management and the Student Government Association, the screening will be held Nov. 5, from 6-9 p.m., in room 102 of the Mills Godwin Building. There will also be a panel of several local and state fire experts who will answer questions and promote fire safety. Food, drinks and giveaways will also be provided.

Despite the presence of modern fire protection systems across all campus buildings, the risk of fire is still a major concern at Old Dominion University.

Prevention is recognized as one of the first lines of defense in reducing fire risk. The entire campus community shares a collective responsibility to learn and recognize situations that could result in fires. This important safety event will provide students, faculty and staff an increased awareness of fire risk and an opportunity to understand their roles and responsibilities relative to campus fire safety.

For more information, or if special accommodations are needed, contact Greg Wooldridge, ODU fire safety engineer, at 757-683-5166.