Students warned: It’s not hot to ignore fire safety
It’s a new academic year and Warwickshire Fire & Rescue is warning students not to ignore potentially deadly fire risks, whether they are living in halls or privately rented accommodation.
Many students experiencing student life for the first time or returning to complete their studies may find themselves living in unfamiliar surroundings. In the excitement of meeting new people and having new responsibilities, it’s easy to forget about the risks of fire.
Area Risk Manager for the Warwick District, Simon Ellershaw, said: “Each year several hundred people die in fires and many more are injured in fires in their homes. Over a quarter of deaths and one third of injuries occur in houses or flats in multiple occupation, the type of accommodation most students live in.”
The six most common causes of fires in shared accommodation are:
· Accidents during cooking
· Lack of care when smoking
· Defective electrical appliances
· Careless disposal of matches
· Careless use of heaters
Negligence after drinking alcohol is another factor that can lead to fire accidents.
Simon Ellershaw continues: “Students should be aware of the risks and try to keep them to a minimum. There are also a number of cheap and practical things students and their landlords can do to ensure their fire safety.”
· Smoke alarms should be fitted in common areas and preferably in living areas.
· Fire extinguishers should be mounted on the wall in the kitchen ready for use. It is also good for extinguishers to be provided in common areas of shared accommodation.
· Make sure you have an adequate means of escape in event of a fire. These should be kept clear and even fitted with fire exit signs.
In closing, Simon Ellershaw said: “Quite often a move to college or university is the first experience a person has of independence. With the academic responsibilities, the worry of keeping a roof over their heads and the freedom to take part in more social activities, safety may not be a first priority.
“Our previous knowledge of attending fires tells us that students are particularly vulnerable. Warwickshire Fire & Rescue hopes that by giving out this information, students will play their part in ensuring standards in their accommodation are maintained.”