Exeter student plugs fire safety message (From Mid Devon Star)

Exeter student plugs fire safety message

7:59pm Tuesday 13th November 2007

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AN Exeter University student fire safety ambassador' will be igniting awareness of fire safety on campus this autumn by 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 putting themselves at unnecessary risk by not having a working smoke alarm.

Students are putting themselves in further danger when they come 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 Jessica Cambridge to carry out activities to raise awareness of fire safety, working closely with Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, including distributing promotional material to fellow students.

The campaign has also attracted the attention of Hollyoaks star Kent Riley, who plays Zak Ramsey in the Channel 4 drama.

He 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 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.

Ama Uzowuru, the National Union for Students' National Vice President Elect for Welfare, said: "NUS continues to support the fire safety ambassadors scheme, and has high hopes for its success in driving home the fire safety message to our members.

"At this time of the year, we would remind all new and returning students that fire safety in their university accommodation should be a priority and if accommodation is not up to adequate safety standards, it is vital students address this by complaining to their landlord."

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