NIFRS Issues Fire Safety Warning To Students Across NI

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has issued a fire safety warning to students, as they begin to move into new accommodations for the academic year.

The NIFRS has emphasised the importance fire safety in student housing as part of Student Fire Safety Week, which begins today, 23 September.

With the start of the semester, many students are living independently for the first time, often in shared housing where the risks of fires increase. NIFRS is calling on student's to take responsibility for their new homes, reminding them that safety starts with them.

NIFRS Group Commander Paul Morrow said: "As students settle into their new homes, we want them to stay fire safe. We understand that many students are living independently for the first time and may not be aware of the variety of factors that increase the risk of accidental house fires. Therefore our aim is to provide students with the knowledge and advice they need to keep themselves and their housemates' safe throughout the academic year.

"Cooking is the number one cause of accidental fires in the home. Therefore never leave cooking unattended and keep flammable items away from the stove. "The second most common cause of fire in the home is connected to electrical items. Avoid overloading sockets as plugging too many devices into one socket can cause dangerous electrical fires.

"We know that socialising is a big part of student life, but it's important to remember when you drink, think. Alcohol can impair your judgement, increasing the risk of fire-related incidents. Don't risk cooking, lighting candles or using electric heaters.

"Plan your escape. Know your nearest fire exits and have a fire escape plan that everyone you live with is aware of. Smoke alarms save lives, so therefore please ensure that you have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

"If a fire starts, close the door on the fire, alert everyone in the property if safe to do so. Get out, stay out and call 999 and get the Fire Service out.

"During Student Fire Safety Week, NIFRS will engage with students at freshers events at universities and colleges across Northern Ireland. Our Firefighters will be available to answer questions and offer personalised fire safety advice to students."

Student fire safety advice can be found at www.nifrs.org.