If you're a student you'll be familiar with bikes in
hallways, de-batteried smoke alarms and burnt food, which can
characterise the typical student habitat - spare a few
thoughts about what you would do if you were to have a
fire.
Would you know what to do? Would your housemates be able to squeeze
past those bikes? What if they were drunk? Maybe you would be
better off taking a few simple steps for peace of mind? Read on for
some simple fire safety tips, plus download leaflets and
posters.
Alcohol and
drugs (this link takes you to an external
website) impair your judgement and typical student
digs are full of hazards - safety awareness should not stop
when you get home.
Cooking safety leaflet (PDF 513kb, opens in
a new window) Unattended pans start fires. Don't start
cooking if you feel close to sleep or unconsciousness,
especially if you are alone. If you really need to soak up the
night's indulgences, eat something cold or get a takeaway. If
your food catches fire close the kitchen door and dial 999.
Never put water onto burning fat and never move a burning
pan.
Extinguish cigarettes, candles (PDF 117kb, opens in a new window)
and incense. These must not be left unattended.
Smoke alarms (PDF 83kb, opens in a new
window) Students in private sector accommodation should test
their smoke alarms weekly.
You can book a free Home Fire Safety
Visit here, one of our team will come round and offer fire
safety advice, they will also fit a free smoke alarm if needed.
Escape routes (PDF 63kb, opens in a new
window) Learn the quickest way out - this may not be the way
you came in. Keep your escape routes clear.
False alarms (PDF 106kb, opens in a new
window) cost lives. Malicious activation of a fire
alarm is a criminal offence. False alarms divert fire service
resources away from real emergencies. Be aware that cooking
fumes, cigarette smoke, deodorant sprays and shower steam can
all trigger a false alarm.