East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is proud to support Student Fire Safety Week from 22 to 28 September 2025.
We want to support students across East Sussex and Brighton & Hove with vital safety knowledge, focusing on Fire Safety.
As students return to university or begin their academic journey, it is crucial to be aware of fire risks. The goal of Student Fire Safety Week is to reduce accidents and save lives by educating and raising awareness.
Community Engagement
This week, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service engaged with students during Freshers Week on 23 September at East Sussex College.
The team talked to students about the variety of careers available within the Fire Service as well as offering safety advice around smoke alarms, road safety, water safety, cooking safety and safe charging practices such as mobile phones, laptops and other lithium-ion battery operated devices.
Fire Safety advice
Whether students live in halls, rented accommodation, or at home, fire safety should always be a top priority. The risks are real, but there are simple steps to stay safe:
- Smoke Alarms Save Lives: Ensure your accommodation has working smoke alarms on every level of the house and test them weekly.
- Cooking Safety: Stay alert when cooking, avoid distractions, and never cook when under the influence of alcohol.
- Cigarettes and Smoking Materials: Take extra care when smoking. Never smoke in bed and always extinguish cigarettes completely. Dispose of vapes responsibly and not in household waste.
- Candle Safety: Avoid using candles or tea lights, opt for battery operated instead. If you do use candles never leave them unattended when lit, and make sure they are fully extinguished after use.
- Electrical Safety: Switch off electrical appliances when not in use unless they are designed to stay on (like a freezer). Avoid overloading sockets and keep electrical items away from flammable materials like curtains.
- Charge Safe: Items such as mobile phones, laptops, e-bikes and e-scooters contain lithium-ion batteries. If damaged, these batteries can be particularly dangerous, so please use and recycle them responsibly. Charge when you are awake and alert. As soon as it’s fully charged, unplug the device to avoid overheating.
- Fire Door Safety: Keep fire doors closed. Never wedge them open. Keep exits clear from clutter.
- Plan an Escape Route: Know your escape route and practice it with housemates. In the event of a fire, remember: Get out, Stay out, and Call 999.
Other Useful links:
For more Home Fire Safety including cooking, electrical, batteries and more visit: More home safety advice | East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service
