How can I keep fire safe in my student house?

Pickard Properties has implemented a range of fire safety features to help keep you safe in your property.

What are we doing to protect you?

• Every kitchen is equipped with a fire blanket.
• All properties are fitted with a hard-wired, interlinked smoke detection system.
• Fire doors throughout the property provide 30 minutes of fire resistance.
• Kitchen fire doors have self-closers to help contain fires.
• All sofas and mattresses comply with fire safety regulations to reduce the risk of fire spread.

What can you do to stay safe?

• Keep hallways and doorways clear of clutter to maintain safe escape routes.
• Always keep fire doors closed and never wedge them open.
• Switch on the extractor fan when cooking and never leave food unattended.
• Avoid cooking if you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Never cover or dry clothes on heaters.
• Keep smoke detectors uncovered and in working condition.
• Use the bathroom fan when showering, as excess steam or sprays like deodorant can trigger smoke alarms.
• Do not use faulty electrical appliances.
• Avoid overloading plug sockets or extension leads.
• Plug heat-generating appliances, such as hairdryers, directly into a wall socket rather than an extension lead.
• Report any faults with fire doors or safety equipment immediately.
• Never block emergency access routes to the property.
• Familiarise yourself with the fire exits and assembly points.
• Only smoke in designated outdoor areas and never smoke or vape indoors.