Students reminded to stay fire safe as the new academic year begins
As students prepare to move into university halls, shared houses and private rented accommodation, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is sharing practical advice to help them stay safe and reduce the risk of fire.
Common risks in student accommodation include overloaded plug sockets, unsafe charging of e-bikes and e-scooters, devices left charging unattended overnight, and cooking-related fires.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to talk about fire safety before young people leave home. Knowing what to do in an emergency and making safe choices from the outset can help students enjoy their new independence with confidence.
Top 5 fire safety tips for students
- Test your smoke alarms – make sure your accommodation has working smoke alarms on every level and test them regularly. Once a month is ideal. Never cover or tamper with smoke alarms.
- Be safe when charging devices – avoid charging phones, tablets and laptop on beds, sofas or other soft furnishings. Use the correct charger and never leave batteries charging unattended overnight. Don’t charge e-bikes or e-scooters indoors.
- Take care in the kitchen – never leave pans unattended, avoid cooking when tired or under the influence of alcohol, and keep tea towels, paper and other combustible items away from hobs.
- Know your escape route – familiarise yourself with the layout of your accommodation, identify all exits and keep hallways and escape routes clear at all times.
- Close doors and get out quickly if there’s a fire – closed internal doors can help slow the spread of fire and smoke. If a fire starts, get out, stay out and call 999.
Water safety reminder:
Students are also being reminded to stay safe around open water.
Many student areas are located close to rivers, canals and lakes, and alcohol can significantly impair judgement, coordination and the ability to swim.
North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging students to:
- Avoid routes home that pass close to open water if they have been drinking.
- Look after friends and help everyone get home safely.
- Never encourage anyone to enter open water after consuming alcohol or drugs.
- Call 999 immediately if someone gets into difficulty in the water. Do not enter the water yourself.
Colin Sutherland, Lead Community Safety Officer at North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said:
“Starting university is an exciting time, but it’s also a period of significant change for many young people who may be living independently for the first time.
“Fortunately, most fires are preventable. Simple steps such as testing smoke alarms, charging devices safely, taking care when cooking and knowing your escape route can make a huge difference.
“We would encourage parents and guardians to have conversations about fire safety before students move away from home. A few minutes of preparation can help keep them safe throughout the academic year.”
For more information please look at our student accommodation guide
ENDS
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Note to editors:
Colin Sutherland NYFRS Community Safety Officer is available for pre-recorded interviews on 22nd September between 2pm-3pm. Please contact Media@northyorksfire.gov.uk to book a slot.
The NYFRS Prevention Team will be at the University of York (21 September 10-4pm) and York St John University (22 September) with our water flume, demonstrating how to stay safe around water.
Photo below: Alan Marsden from the RNLI, Crew Manager Joe Walker and David Ransom from our Prevention Team pictured at University of York today (21st September) please credit NYFRS
Photos from 2025 Freshers’ day at York College please credit NYFRS
