There have been several dormitory and residential fires on college campuses in the last few years that have claimed the lives of several students. As a result of these recent fires, concern has been raised among fire protection professionals, campus officials and the public concerning fire safety in campus housing. That concern was felt strongly at Presbyterian College. Although PC has not experienced a fatal fire since it was founded, campus officials recognized that almost any fire has potentially fatal consequences.

PC has a major residential system on campus consisting of 11 dormitory structures and 8 apartment buildings that house approximately 1000 students. The structures vary considerably in construction and fire protection capabilities as a result of prevailing fire codes in effect at the time of construction. This situation is normal for any campus similar to PC. The college has devoted considerable resources since 2001 to upgrading fire safety in the residential buildings.

The Campus Police Department works closely with Residence Life to ensure proper response to fire alarms and elimination of fire hazards. A close working relationship also exists between the College and the Clinton Fire Department.

Although the College fire prevention resources are directed at the entire campus, a major aim of the program is specifically directed at the residence halls. The campus fire prevention program requires a balanced effort consisting of education, emergency planning, inspection of buildings and testing of fire protection systems. Fire drills are conducted periodically to familiarize the students and staff on proper procedures to follow during fire alarms.

All residential buildings are protected with an automatic alarm system monitored 24 hours a day by a monitoring company. This alarm system consists of smoke detectors (all residential rooms and corridors), heat detectors and pull stations. There are sprinkler systems in most of the buildings on campus.