People living in rented or shared accommodation are seven times more likely to have a fire.

Fire Safety for Students in Rented Accommodation
 
When moving into private rented accommodation normally the location of the property, the décor and price are the main concerns for any potential buyers. However a big issue usually forgotten is whether the property is safe from fire and more importantly if you, the tenant would be safe if a fire does occur in the property.
 
Below is some simple safety advice that should be followed for anybody renting accommodation, especially if it comes fully or partly furnished.
 
When viewing and selecting a property
 
·        Make sure all escape routes are well maintained.
·        Check all doors and windows that might be used as an escape route are either unlocked or a key for their use is supplied.
·        Inspect the electrics in the property, check they are in good condition, pay particular attention to high voltage items i.e. the shower and cooker.
·        Ensure any furniture supplied in the property is fire resistant.
·        Check if there is a fire extinguisher and / or blanket in communal cooking areas.
·        Make sure smoke alarms are located on every floor and in working order.
 
Moving in to the property
 
·        Make yourself aware of all escape routes and ensure they operate correctly.
·        Make sure a safety check of any gas appliances and their flues has been carried out in the last 12 months - by law the landlord must carry out this check.
·        Ensure no electrical wires run under carpets or across floors where they are prone to be worn or tripped over.
·        Avoid overloading plug sockets, do not use any more then one 4-way extension lead on a double socket.
·        If gas is used in the property use a carbon monoxide indicator or detector (click here for more information) to ensure there is no leak.
·        Make yourself familiar with the fire safety equipment in the property.
·        Ensure boxes and other items waiting to be unpacked are not left blocking an escape routes especially overnight.
 
During your stay in the property
 
·        Test the smoke alarms weekly and replace the batteries yearly.
·        Keep the property tidy and clutter free, especially any escape route or the kitchen.
·        Never smoke in bed, best practise would be to avoid smoking in the house altogether.
·        Report any problems you have with the property to the landlord on the first instance, leaving it till later might be too late.
 
Cooking safety
 
·        Take care when using a chip pan (click here for chip pan safety advice)
·        Never leave cooking unattended.
·        Do not attempt to cook when under the influence of alcohol, if necessary use a toaster or another device that has a timer.
 
Further advice on renting
 
      A guide for landlords - communities.gov.uk
A guide for tenants - communities.gov.uk
 

Making Fire Safety Simple!