Students

When cooking, stay in the kitchen, especially if using oil or at high temperatures. Have a proper-fitting pot lid close by to slide over the pot and turn off the stove if a pot catches fire. Cooking requires constant attention. Distractions like televisions, cell phones, or computers can lead to a tragic cooking fire.

Keep candles away from anything that can burn and place them in a safe, sturdy holder with a glass shade or hurricane chimney. Place them where they cannot be knocked over and blow them out when leaving the room.

Alcohol is a common factor in many fire fatalities involving cooking and smoking. Be aware of roommates and friends who have been drinking excessively, especially if they are cooking or smoking.

Create smoking rules. If you smoke inside, use large, sturdy ashtrays that cannot be tipped over. Empty ashtrays into a metal container, not a garbage can. Check around furniture cushions after people have been smoking, especially if they have been drinking.

Toasters, coffeemakers and microwaves need to be plugged directly into an outlet. If you must use an extension cord, buy the correct gauge for the appliance and has a Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (C.S.A.) or Canada Standards Association (U.L.C.) approval mark on the label. C.S.A. or U.L.C. approved power bars may be used for stereo equipment, computers and lights.

Keep things that burn away from heat sources like stovetops, space heaters and electronic equipment. For example, tea towels and paper too close to burners can catch fire. Keep space heaters at least 1 m away from bedding, furniture and curtains.

Your room or apartment must have working smoke alarms. Test monthly and notify the landlord immediately if they are not working. Dead batteries must be replaced right away. Nuisance alarms can be avoided by making sure smoke alarms are not located too close to the kitchen or bathroom. Consider getting a smoke alarm with a hush feature. Check smoke alarms after an extended absence, such as Christmas break and reading week. Never tamper with or disable a smoke alarm.

In the event of a fire, know two ways out of your room or apartment and make sure you can use them. If you live in a high-rise, read the building's fire safety plan. If a fire happens, call the fire department from a safe location outside.

Visit our Fire Safety Devices webpage and create a safety package that includes a:

• smoke alarm
• carbon monoxide alarm
• battery powered lantern or flashlight
• a radio
• extra batteries
• an Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (C.S.A.) or Canada Standards Association (U.L.C.)  approved power bar