Safe Accomodations for Post Secondary Students
As students prepare to move into shared or rented accommodations to attend college or university; parents, guardians and students themselves should take an active role in finding a safe place to live. Whether returning to school or leaving home for the first time, a discussion about good fire safety practices can help to ensure this exciting time in a student’s life is not marred by a fire tragedy.
Students:
Whether you are a student moving into a college or university residence, there are a multitude of decisions to be made. Every year there are fires that affect students that could have been prevented through fire safety precautions. While there are several causes for these fires (i.e. cigarettes, candles, cooking, space heaters, etc) you need to be prepared in the event of fire.
Review the Fire Safety Awareness Campaign - kNOwfire.ca - watch short clips at www.knowfire.ca
and then ensure you pass fire safety 101. Student Accommodations Fire Safety 101
Parents:
Here are some things to take into consideration when helping choose a new place. If your child has already moved in a place and you are concerned about their fire safety, contact your local fire prevention division. Use this guide Student Accomodations Parent's Guide to finding fire-safe accomodations for your son or daughter.
10 Tips for a Safe Place to Live
1. Look While You Cook: Stay in the kitchen when cooking – especially if using oil or high temperatures. If a pot catches fire, have a properly fitting pot lid handy to slide over the pot and turn off the stove.
2. Candle With Care: If you use candles in your room or apartment, keep them away from anything that can burn and place them in a safe, sturdy holder.
3. Keep An Eye On Excessive Drinkers: Alcohol is a common factor in many fire fatalities involving cooking and smoking.
4. Smoke Outside: Establish rules for smokers.
5. Use Electricity Wisely: Toasters, coffeemakers and microwaves should be plugged directly into an outlet.
6. Clear the Clutter: Keep things that burn away from heat sources like stovetops, space heaters and electronic equipment.
7. Working Smoke Alarms: It’s the Law: Your room or apartment must have working smoke alarms. Test them monthly and notify the landlord immediately if they’re not working.
8. Plan To Escape: Know two ways out of your room or apartment in case of fire.
9. Be Equipped: To stay safe, all students should put together a package that includes a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm, a battery powered lantern or flashlight and radio, extra batteries and a or approved power bar.
10. Learn More: For more information about fire safety in student accommodations, contact Burlington Fire Department or visit:
www.knowfire.ca
www.makeitstop.ca
www.ofm.gov.on.ca
www.esasafe.com
www.csa.ca
Burlington Fire Prevention can be reached at (905) 637-9536 or via email to firedepartment@burlington.ca