Student life is full of excitement – new friends, new routines, and a fresh sense of independence. But with that independence comes responsibility, especially when it comes to fire safety. During Student Fire Safety Week, Drax360 wants to make sure you’re equipped with the right tools and knowledge to keep yourself and your fellow students safe.
Whether you’re moving into halls or shared flats, fire risks are real. From overloaded plugs to unattended cooking, student accommodations can present unique challenges. Here’s a fire safety checklist to help you stay vigilant.
Educate Yourself About Fire Alarms and Evacuation Protocols
Fire alarms do more than just wake you up from a deep sleep – they’re critical for alerting everyone in the building to danger. Make sure you:
- Understand how your fire alarm system works. Know where the alarms are located and what each signal means.
- Learn evacuation routes. Take time to familiarise yourself with all exits from your flat and building. Ask your accommodation manager for information if it’s unclear.
- Never ignore a fire alarm. Whether it’s a test or a real emergency, always take action by evacuating immediately.
At Drax360, we specialise in advanced alarm systems, ensuring early detection and a smooth evacuation process in residential buildings.
Recognise and Report Faults
Be proactive in maintaining your safety. If you notice any issues with fire equipment or building safety, it’s your responsibility to report it. This could include:
- Damaged fire doors that no longer close properly.
- Faulty smoke detectors – if they don’t go off during tests, inform building management immediately.
- Broken emergency lighting – without proper lighting, escape routes could be compromised during a power outage.
Our sister company Drax Technology allows us to remotely monitor fire alarm systems, ensuring faults are detected and addressed quickly, giving you peace of mind.
Respect Fire Safety Equipment
It may be tempting to wedge open a fire door for convenience or use a fire extinguisher for fun, but tampering with fire safety equipment can have dangerous consequences:
- Keep fire doors closed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke.
- Only use fire extinguishers in emergencies. Know how to operate one, but don’t misuse them.
- Don’t block fire exits with furniture, bikes, or boxes.
Tampering with fire safety systems not only puts lives at risk but could also lead to fines or penalties from your accommodation provider.
Be Smart in the Kitchen
Kitchen fires are one of the most common types of fires in student accommodations. Whether you’re a budding chef or just reheating leftovers, remember these key tips:
- Don’t leave cooking unattended. Even if it’s just a quick snack, stay in the kitchen until your food is ready.
- Turn off appliances when not in use. This includes toasters, microwaves, and kettles – don’t just leave them plugged in.
- Keep your cooking space clear. Flammable items like kitchen towels, oven mitts, and wooden utensils should be kept far from hot surfaces.
We ensure that all fire systems in student kitchens are regularly monitored to provide full protection, but individual habits make a big difference too.
Understand Fire Prevention with Electrical Appliances
University life means plenty of tech; laptops, phones, tablets, and gaming consoles, but overloaded sockets and worn-out wires can be dangerous. Here’s how to reduce the risk:
- Use certified surge protectors for multiple devices instead of daisy-chaining extension cords.
- Inspect cords regularly for wear and tear, and replace them if they’re damaged.
- Avoid overloading sockets. Spread your devices across available plugs rather than stacking them in one.
Our systems are designed to detect potential fire hazards, but it’s important to take these preventive steps in your daily routine.
Raise Fire Safety Awareness Among Your Friends
Fire safety is everyone’s responsibility. Spread the word by:
- Talking to your flatmates about fire risks and making sure everyone is aware of the protocols.
- Encouraging regular fire drills to ensure everyone knows what to do in an emergency.
- Sharing fire safety tips on your social media during Student Fire Safety Week to help raise awareness.
At Drax360, we believe fire safety should be a shared priority for students and property managers alike.
Fire Safety Is a Shared Responsibility
With the right knowledge and a proactive attitude, students can significantly reduce fire risks in their accommodations. At Drax360, we work closely with student accommodation providers to deliver comprehensive fire safety solutions that include advanced monitoring, fire alarm systems, and regular maintenance.
By following these essential tips, you’re not just protecting yourself – you’re safeguarding your entire student community.
Want to learn more about our fire safety solutions for student accommodations? Contact us today to find out how we can help keep your building safe and secure.
