Students

Student 'halls' or 'dorms' must have fire detection and alarm systems fitted and most have strict rules designed to reduce fire risks.

• There will be automatic fire detectors in key areas, which sound an alarm when activated by heat or smoke. If you hear a fire alarm, get out and stay out
• There will be break-glass fire alarms near exit doors. If you discover a fire - or if you suspect there's a fire - break the glass to sound the fire alarm. That will warn other students. Then get out and stay out
• There will be fire resistant doors in key areas. When shut, they protect your escape route from smoke and fire. Never wedge fire doors open, they are there for your safety. It is dangerous to open a door if there's a fire behind it. Touch the door with the back of your hand. If it's hot, do not open it
• There will be fire extinguishers and fire blankets to tackle small fires. But never put yourself in danger. If in doubt, get out and stay out. Call 999

If you're sharing rented accommodation, there's a bigger risk of fire. That's partly because rented accommodation isn't always well maintained.

In rented accommodation always:

• check there are working smoke alarms in the flat and on stairs and landings
• check there are no bars on the windows
• check the labels on the furniture. Furniture made before 1988 won't be flame-resistant. It can catch fire easily and will give off clouds of toxic smoke

Most calls to student accommodation are false alarms. Many false alarms are caused by carelessness. Some are deliberate.

Firefighters answering a false alarm could be delayed from saving lives in a real fire.

In halls of residence, if smoke or heat detectors are triggered, the Fire Service is called automatically.

How to avoid false alarms

Don't allow the following any where near smoke or heat detectors:

• aerosol sprays
• candles and incense sticks
• cooking fumes
• steam from bathrooms and irons
• smoking materials

Smoke detectors are sensitive:

• never use sprays directly under smoke detectors
• never cover a smoke detector head
• keep bathroom doors closed
• take extra care if you use candles or incense sticks
• take extra care if you use a portable cooker or heater in your room

For more information read this guide on living away from home or visit Don't Give Fire a Home.