China's Ministry of Education and Ministry of Public Security jointly issued a circular Thursday ordering colleges and universities to intensify fire control as winter comes.

School managers were told to ensure new and renovated buildings meet fire-proof standards and group activities be conducted with emergency exits.

The ministries also requested fire-fighting education for students, suggesting that student organizations be set up to help with fire control.

The use of high-power electrical appliances in student dormitories is strictly prohibited, the circular said.

Winter in China, especially in the northern part, is dry and cold, which often induces the use of coal fire or electrical appliances behind closed doors.

The circular also stated colleges should report major fires to the Ministry of Education while informing local education authorities within two hours of the incidents.

School managers held responsible for fires would be punished according to the law, and schools in serious violations of fire control regulations would be deprived of award of merit for the year, said the circular.

(Xinhua News Agency December 4, 2009)