Did you know that people living in rented or shared accommodation are seven times more likely to have a fire?
Fire safety might not be at the top of your agenda while you’re away at university, but it should be. Please take time to read the following safety advice to help protect yourself and your belongings:
Put it out – right out
Smoking is not allowed in university campus buildings, and you should only smoke in designated external smoking shelters.
If you are living in private accommodation take extra care if smoking inside, make sure cigarettes are extinguished properly, and remember to NEVER smoke in bed.
Cooking
Most accidental fires start in the kitchen. Never leave cooking unattended, and take extra care when frying with oil. You should avoid using chip pans – and never cook when under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Taking care of your kitchen equipment is important. Don’t cover microwaves, and clean your oven, hob and grill regularly to avoid a build-up of fat or grease can easily ignite and cause a fire.
Electrical safety
Don’t overload plug sockets and adapters, and watch out for loose wiring, scorch marks, and hot plugs and sockets.
Keep heaters clear from curtains and furniture and never use them to dry clothes. Remember not to place hot items like straighteners or hair dryers on surfaces which might catch fire like bedding or carpets.
Avoid leaving electrical items charging overnight or unattended, and always turn off when not in use. Check your electrical appliances and wires are in good working order, and if there is any damage don’t use them.
Candles
Candles are not allowed in student halls of residence. If you are using candles in private accommodation, keep them away from flammable items like curtains, TV sets, furniture, bedding and books. Make sure candles are on a stable surface where they can’t be knocked over and never leave lit candles unattended – ensure they are completely out before you leave the room or go to bed. Consider using LED battery ones instead!
Escape routes
Make sure you and your housemates know the quickest way out in the event of a fire. Plan a second escape route in case the first one is blocked.
Always keep exits clear from clutter and obstructions, and keep door and window keys in a known and accessible place. Don’t prop or wedge a fire door open – a closed one could save your life.
Know your rights
If you’re living in private rented accommodation your landlord has to meet certain safety obligations and should provide you with a copy of the safety check record. They must also install a working smoke alarm on every floor of the property. When you move in, check the property is fitted with smoke alarms and make sure you test them every week.
If you’re living in student halls you will have a designated person responsible for fire safety. It’s important that you check what fire safety rules are in place for your halls of residence, pay attention to fire drills and NEVER ignore a fire alarm.
Further information
For more fire safety information, you can visit the Fire Kills webpages. You might also find the information on Fire Safety in Shared or Rented Accommodation helpful.
REMEMBER, IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE, GET OUT, STAY OUT AND CALL 999.