"The good feeling is that Maine West meets all the safety requirements of a brand new building. It's right up to the minute," said Mr. James Coburn, assistant principal, regarding Maine West's recent building renovations. All changes and additions were made to comply with state safety measures and were paid for by state funds.

When construction is completed, Maine West will be in full compliance with Illinois State Life and Safety Code's high standards. Renovation began at the start of this school year and is soon to be finished.

Fire protection was a major reason for most changes and additions made. Fire doors were installed in order to close increased ventilation in halls and stairways if fire occurs. Heat detectors, which are designed to set off fire alarms when excessive heat is sensed, were placed in all rooms and halls.

Overhead sprinkling systems were installed in the auditorium and stage vicinity. These systems are designed to release streams of water covering an approximate 10 foot area when activated by extreme heat from below.

Emergency lights, which contain independent power sources and can burn for up to three days when power failures occur, were placed in all hallways. Univent units were installed in each classroom to increase fresh air intake. Hand railings were placed at the ramp areas of hallways to insure each students' personal protection, and lights were added to the building's exterior for extra protection.

Mr. Peter Johnson is the major contractor in charge of installing Maine's new safety precautions. Mr. Coburn coordinated the contractor's work and student activities as to avoid disruption of either, lie believes that the new construction will not affect the school's operation, but will greatly increase its safety.

It has come to Mr. Coburn's attention that the newly installed fire doors are becoming somewhat bothersome and dangerous, especially during class changes. He agrees that the doors can block traffic, but said their inconvenience should be weighed against danger which exists during fires.