With students returning to university this week, Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service (RBFRS) is reminding students to be fire aware this Student Fire Safety Week (Monday, 23 September – Sunday, 29 September).
As many young people are living away from home for the first time, which brings with it new responsibilities when it comes to fire safety. Whether they are living in rented accommodation or halls of residence, there are several small steps students can take to stop fire from starting.
Speaking on Student Fire Safety Week, Paul Scott, Prevention Manager at RBFRS, said: “Living away from home for the first time is exciting for many students. It provides young people opportunities to make new friends and develop skills that will stay with them for life. However, with it being such a busy period for students, especially during Freshers’ Week, many students may pay less attention potential fire risks. We want to remind students to do their part in reducing the risk of fire in their accommodation.
“The majority of fires we attend at student accommodation start in the kitchen, often when someone has become distracted. Make sure you do not leave cooking unattended and keep flammable materials away from stovetops.
“If there is a fire in your accommodation, make sure you know how to get out. Keep escape routes clear and remember, in an emergency you should get out, stay out and call 999”
“The majority of fires we attend at student accommodation start in the kitchen, often when someone has become distracted. Make sure you do not leave cooking unattended and keep flammable materials away from stovetops.
Paul Scott, Prevention Manager
To keep yourself and others safe at University:
- Do not prop open fire doors
- Never ignore fire alarms or smoke alarms
- Do not let rubbish build up and keep fire exits and escape routes clear
- Do not tamper with fire safety equipment, like fire extinguishers, fire alarms or fire exit signs
- Do not overload electrical plug sockets
- Take extra care when using hair straighteners or hair dryers
- Don’t charge devices on your bed
- Do not smoke inside
- Do not cook if you have been drinking alcohol
- Know your escape route
- Do not cover up smoke alarms
For further information visit the Your Safety pages on rbfrs.co.uk.