Every year, preventable fires affect students. 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
- Ensure you pass Student Accommodations Fire Safety 101 (PDF)
- For parents, consult the Student Accommodations Parent's Guide (PDF) to find fire-safe accommodations for your son or daughter.
10 Tips for a Safe Place to Live
- 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 lid handy to slide over the pot and turn off the stove.
- Be careful with candles: 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.
- Keep an eye on excessive drinkers: Alcohol is a common factor in many fire deaths involving cooking and smoking.
- Smoke outside: Establish rules for smokers.
- Use electricity wisely: Toasters, coffeemakers and microwaves should be plugged directly into an outlet. Review electrical safety guidelines.
- Clear the clutter: Keep things that burn away from heat sources like stovetops, space heaters and electronic equipment.
- Have 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 are not working.
- Plan an escape: Have an escape plan. Know two ways out of your room or apartment in case of fire.
- Be equipped: To stay safe, put together a kit that includes a smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm, a battery powered lantern or flashlight, a radio, extra batteries and an approved power bar.
- Learn more: For more information about fire safety in student accommodations, consult Make it Stop, Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services or Electrical Safety Authority.