In order to raise the staff and students awareness to fire safety on campus, the Institute For Tourism Studies (IFT) organised a fire drill in Taipa Campus on 19 March. As a higher education institution, IFT believes that it is important for the public and all industries to be aware of fire hazards to minimise the loss of life and properties and give our visitors peace of mind.

IFT has strategically started the occupational safety and health scheme on campus since 2000. The Occupational Safety & Health and Environmental Committee has invited Macau Red Cross deliver first aid courses for staff and organised fire precaution seminar at the Fire Services Department. With the assistance of the Fire Services Department (by advising on firefighting equipment and examining the campus surrounding to lay down the evacuation routes), an emergency plan was drafted to give staff, students and guests at the training units clear instructions of evacuation in case of fire.

IFT organises fire drills every year and this time it took place at the new Taipa Campus, which began operation in September 2009. 380 staff and students completed the drill in 7 minutes, which was less than the “golden 8 minutes” suggested by the Fire Services Department. The drill required the participants to put together all the skills learnt in first aids, fire control and emergency evacuation. IFT has invited the Fire Services Department to observe the drill and gave valuable comment to improve the whole process.

In addition to the regular fire drill, IFT also concerns the occupational health and safety and working environmental of the staff. Until 2010, more than 80 staff have joined fire precaution seminars and trainings on the use of fire extinguishers. Safety of travelers has great impact on the development of our tourism industry. Therefore, it is important to enhance our students’ knowledge on fire precaution which when they join the tourism industry, to build up a positive image of Macao as a beautiful and safe travel destination.