A Burning Message :: Wessex Scene Online

A Burning Message

24th January 2008

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A Southampton student ‘fire safety ambassador’ will be igniting awareness of fire safety on campus during Re-Freshers week in February, and urging fellow students to keep safe from fire in rented accommodation.

Hectic student lifestyles coupled with partying, smoking and drinking mean students could be putting themselves at a higher risk of fire. Over the past five years, cigarettes, smoking materials and candles have been the cause of 1,900 student injuries, with many students putting themselves at unnecessary risk by not having a working smoke alarm.

Students are putting themselves in further danger when they return home from a night out drinking and prepare a midnight feast on the stove – 55% of student deaths in fires occur through the misuse of cooking appliances and careless handling of hot substances. Students are recommended to feast on less hazardous snacks, after drinking, such as fruit, sandwiches and ice cream.

The ‘Fire Kills campaign’ has recruited local student, Ian Burst, to carry out activities to raise awareness of fire safety, including distributing promotional material to fellow students. ‘Bursty’, who is studying for a Masters degree in Marketing Management, said: "This is the 4th year I’ve been living and studying in Southampton, and I believe students need to be made aware of the dangers posed by fire and also made aware of the fact that it is up to each of us to ensure we remain safe."

The campaign has also attracted the attention of Hollyoaks actor, Kent Riley, who plays Zak Ramsey in the Channel 4 drama. He said: "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 also 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 whilst 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.
Practice an escape route with your housemates.
If a fire starts get out, stay out and dial 999.

For further information, visit www.firekills.gov.uk or safe.susu.org and look out for live demos during the student survival day on 13 Febuary.