Stanford University

Stanford University Fire Marshal’s Office (SUFMO)

Stanford University Fire Marshal’s Office (SUFMO) provides a comprehensive catalog of fire life safety services on Stanford University campuses. These services include, but are not limited to: fire protection engineering, education, maintenance, and inspection. SUFMO’s dedication to protecting fire life safety at Stanford enables the community to conduct academic, research, and residential life in a safe environment.


How Do I…

Request AED repair or service?

Contact Leahann Christman with Health Education Services (lchristman@healtheducationservices.net). View a map of all AED locations on campus

Get information about wildfires & smoke on campus?

Environmental Health & Safety continually monitors local air quality. Learn about current conditions and available campus resources.

Learn about lithium-ion battery & e-Mobility devices (electric bike, scooters, etc) fire safety?

It’s important to know that while lithium-ion batteries are in many of the devices we use daily (such as laptops, smartphones, electric scooters and bikes), they pose a fire risk. If not used correctly, they may catch fire and explode. The National Fire Protection Association has important information on lithium-ion batteries as well as fact sheets and resources to promote your understanding and safety when using items containing lithium-ion batteries. NBC News produced a video illustrating the risks and potentials for harm that lithium-ion batteries pose. 

Electric bikes, scooters, hoverboards, etc. are prohibited inside Stanford residences. Review the policy.


Fire Safety Training & Policies

Fire Extinguisher Training
  1. SUFMO provides free and fee-based fire extinguisher testing to the Stanford community. 


Policy for Tampering with Fire Equipment
  1. It is against California law (Penal Code 148.4) and University policy (Admin Guide section 2.4.5(3)a) to tamper with any fire equipment. Fire equipment that is not in working order jeopardizes all residents. Violators will be subject to substantial fines (minimum $1000) and criminal penalties. 

    Fire equipment includes: 

    • fire extinguishers and hoses, 
    • fire alarm pull boxes, 
    • smoke detectors, 
    • automatic door closers, 
    • fire sprinkler systems, 
    • fire horns and lights, 
    • exit signs, and 
    • evacuation maps. 

    Tampering includes, but is not necessarily limited to: 

    • removing or covering exit signs or evacuation maps, 
    • hanging anything from sprinkler systems, 
    • altering the function of door closers, 
    • disabling smoke detectors, 
    • discharging fire extinguishers for any purpose other than extinguishing a fire, and 
    • doing anything else that compromises the proper functioning of fire equipment. 

    Any fire equipment repair or replacement costs, plus associated tampering fines that result from misconduct, will be charged to your department. If you have questions regarding specific charges, please contact your Department Account Manager


Policy for Tampering with Smoke Detectors / Smoke Alarms
  1. Smoke alarms and smoke detectors are essential life safety devices and must remain fully functional at all times. Tampering with, disabling, covering, or otherwise interfering with the operation of these devices is strictly prohibited by California law and University policy. This includes actions such as removing batteries, covering detectors with plastic or tape, disconnecting units, or obstructing airflow in any way.

    Violators will be subject to significant fines (minimum $500), disciplinary action, and potential criminal penalties. Interfering with smoke detection equipment compromises the safety of all occupants and may result in delayed emergency response or failure to alert residents in a fire situation.

    The safety of all residents depends on the proper function of life safety equipment. Any costs incurred for repair, replacement, or response due to tampering—along with applicable fines—will be billed to your student account or building PTA. If you have concerns about a malfunctioning detector or believe one has been improperly triggered, immediately contact Housing Service Center or the appropriate emergency maintenance line. If you suspect a detector is malfunctioning or improperly installed, contact Housing Facilities or the appropriate emergency maintenance line immediately.


Policy For Space Heaters
  1. A space heater is a self-contained device for heating an enclosed area. Portable electric space heaters are regulated by Section 605.10 of the California Fire Code.

    Only space heaters meeting the following criteria are permitted:  

    • The heater must be electrically powered and designated as approved with a nationally recognized testing laboratory mark [common marks include Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or FM Global Technologies (FM)]. Liquid-fuel (propane, kerosene) space heaters are not permitted. 
    • The space heater must have a thermostat for heat regulation. Heaters without thermostats (e.g., simple “on/off” or “high/low” switches) are not permitted.  
    • Space heaters must have a tip-over shutdown feature. If the heater is knocked over, the unit must automatically shut off.  
    • Space heaters that are not equipped with a tip-over shutdown feature must have overheat protection, which will automatically shut the unit off if there is an overheat situation.  
    • Space heaters listed in accordance with UL1278 comply with Section 605.10 of the California Fire Code.

    Review important safety information before using a space heater in Stanford residences. 


Policy for Tailgating/BBQs
  1. Stanford Athletics has multiple areas for tailgating locations, including Chuck Taylor Grove, PAC 12 Plaza, Master’s Grove, Templeton Plaza, etc. To inquire about booking one of these groves, and the reservation price, please reach out to the specific Event Manager or Scheduling and Events Coordinator ahead of time. 

    Most groves (including parking lots) include picnic tables and trash cans, and some have stationary BBQ grills. Patrons must bring their own coal for those grills, but must cool it off before leaving and dispose of the coal in the coal pits. A janitorial fee will be charged to ensure the spaces are cleaned and organized properly after use, but patrons must also make sure to collect and throw away all of their trash. Alcohol is permitted in these areas, but will not be allowed in any building or event. The sale of food, alcohol, or merchandise, etc. is strictly prohibited. 

    Patrons may bring their own grills, but must place them on dirt or grass areas, NOT on concrete pathways. Coordination with the Event Manager or Scheduling and EVents Coordinator must also cover applying for disposal of the coal. 

    Tailgating in any of the paved parking lots (Varsity, Maples, Track) is not permitted. Patrons who wish to tailgate in a parking lot will be directed to do so in the dirt lot facing El Camino Real, Lot 2. 

    Patrons may drop off any equipment that is needed as close to the areas as the parking lots and streets allow, as parking in these groves is not permitted (with the exception of football game-days). For football game-days, these spaces must be reserved and paid through the Scheduling and Events Coordinator.



Contact Us

Non-emergency phone numbers during regular business hours:

  • SUFMO (M-F 6:30 AM to 3 PM): (650) 725-2129 
  • EH&S Front Desk: (650) 723-0448
  • After Hours Stanford University Operator Service Center (650) 723-2281
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