College and university students in shared or rented accommodation are being urged to keep safe from fire.
The call comes from Cumbrian firefighters who are warning students not to neglect basic fire prevention advice at the start of the new academic year in Cumbria.
Over the past five years cigarettes, smoking materials and candles have been the cause of 1,900 student injuries across the UK, with many students putting themselves at unnecessary risk by not having a working smoke alarm.
Students are putting themselves in further danger when they come home from a night out drinking and prepare a midnight feast on the stove - 55 per cent of student deaths in fires occur through the misuse of cooking appliances and careless handling of hot substances.
Brian Steadman, community risk manager at Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, 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."
Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service carries out free home safety checks which include advice on the best escape route to take, checking the home for fire hazards and installing a free working smoke alarm where required. For more advice or to arrange a free Home Safety Check, people can contact Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service on 0800-358-4777.
Simple tips on keeping fire safe in student, or any, accommodation are:
Fit smoke alarms on each level of the house and test them weekly Don't leave cooking unattended Do not attempt to cook whilst under the influence of alcohol Don't overload plug sockets Switch off electrical appliances like mobile chargers and hair straighteners when not in use Take extra care with cigarettes and smoking materials Never leave candles unattended Know your rights: landlords are responsible for supplying safe gas appliances and electrical wiring Check furniture has the permanent fire-resistant label Practice an escape route with your housemates If a fire starts get out, stay out and dial 999.
ENDS
Media enquiries to Mark Graham, Media Officer on 01228-606337