Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 19/09/2

Cornwall County Fire Brigade is launching a campaign to keep university students safe from fire.

Students are at a high risk of fire, as they don’t tend to have smoke alarms and their lifestyle habits – smoking, drinking and socialising - pose risks.

Fire officers from Cornwall County Fire Brigade will be visiting local campuses and residential areas to remind students to fit a smoke alarm and test the battery each week.

Divisional Commander Derek Walker said: “Students need to be aware of fire safety issues in their home. Fires can cause huge devastation so the effort of fitting and checking a smoke alarm regularly means you, your housemates and your possessions will be safe.”

Here are a few simple tips on keeping safe in student accommodation:
• Fit smoke alarms on each level of the house and test them weekly.
• Don’t leave cooking unattended.
• Check furniture has the permanent fire-resistant label.
• Take extra care with cigarettes and smoking materials.
• Never leave candles unattended.
• Practice an escape route with your housemates.
• If a fire starts get out, stay out and dial 999.

If you are a student in Falmouth and would like to arrange a free home fire safety check contact Falmouth Fire Station on 01326 212412. If you live elsewhere please call freephone 0800 3581 999.

For more information on fire safety visit: www.firekills.gov.uk