Fire safety!
Hollyoaks actor Kent Riley has teamed up with Communities and Local Government’s Fire Kills Campaign to encourage thousands of students to keep safe from fire in rented accommodation.
Partying, smoking and drinking are all part and parcel of the hectic student lifestyle, but it could be putting students at higher risk of fire. Over the past five years cigarettes, smoking materials and candles have been the cause of 1,900 student injuries. 55% of student deaths in fires occur through the misuse of cooking appliances and careless handling of hot substances.
Kent, who plays student Zak Ramsey in the Channel 4 drama, said ‘It's so easy nowadays for students to overwork themselves, if they're not studying then most have part-time jobs. As a result they don't have much time on their hands and a lot of students don't realise that they're putting themselves in danger by not following some basic fire safety procedures.
‘Students in England might not be aware that they can request a home fire safety visit from their local fire and rescue service who can provide and fit a smoke alarm for free...and we all know students love anything that's free! I'd urge students to take advantage of this opportunity and stay safe from fire.’
Simple tips on keeping fire safe in student, or any, accommodation are:
· Fit smoke alarms on each level of the house and test them weekly
· Don’t leave cooking unattended
· Do not attempt to cook under the influence of alcohol
· Don’t overload plug sockets
· Switch off electrical appliances like mobile chargers and hair straighteners when not in use
· Take extra care with cigarettes and smoking materials
· Never leave candles unattended
· Know your rights: landlords are responsible for supplying safe gas appliances and electrical wiring
· Check furniture has the permanent fire-resistant label
· Plan an escape route with your housemates
· If a fire starts get out, stay out and dial 999
To find out more, go to www.firekills.gov.uk. If you do nothing else, make sure you fit a smoke alarm. You know how we worry about you.
Comments
(All comments will need to be approved before they will be shown on this page)
