Snack smart: 

Consider a takeaway, cold snack or pre-cook your food if you are planning a big night out. Drink can make you forgetful and clumsy, slow reaction times when a fire does break out and can affect your decision making. Remember it's not just your life you're putting at risk, it's everyone living in the same building and nearby.

Turn off: 

Sounds basic but make sure cooking appliances and other electrical items – particularly high heat products like hair straighteners and mobile phone chargers – are turned off when not in use. Cooking appliances can heat up very quickly so be wary of things that are nearby. Food packaging should be put in the bin as soon as possible to avoid any unnecessary items getting burnt or becoming a fire hazard.

Unclog your sockets: 

Overloading electrical sockets can be a common source for fires. Do not overload sockets or extension cables.

Dry safely: 

Covering lamps or heaters with clothes or fabrics is a major fire risk. Never be tempted to dry anything close to a fire – use the tumble dryers available in halls or locally, line dry or ensure you use a clothes horse stored well away from any heat source.

Escape route: 

If a fire does break out and the alarm has not been activated - activate it. You will need to exit the building as quickly and safely as possible. In order to do this you need to be aware of where the fire exits are. Ensure you plan and are familiar with the route and make sure the route is clear of any obstructions as often as possible.

No naked flames: 

Anything with an open flame is a fire hazard; there must be no smoking in your rooms. NEVER cover the smoke detector as this will de-activate the detector placing yourselves and other students at serious risk.

Test your plan: 

Be aware of when and how to exit the premises in the event of a fire or when the alarm is activated, ensure you know where your assembly point(s) are.