Norfolk County Fire Department photo, media release
Moving into a new home or accommodation for the school year can be exciting, but Norfolk County Fire is reminding students not to overlook fire safety.
Fire officials are encouraging students to plan their escape routes before a smoke or carbon monoxide alarm ever sounds.
Students should identify two ways out of every room and establish a meeting location outside the building. Having a plan in place ahead of time can save critical seconds during an emergency.
Students should also review any fire safety information provided by their landlord and make sure windows and doors in bedrooms can be opened easily.
Hallways and stairways should be kept clear of boxes, bags, shoes and other clutter that could block an escape route.
For those living with roommates, fire officials recommend agreeing on an outdoor meeting location and making sure everyone knows the plan.
Norfolk County Fire is also encouraging students to practise their escape routes so they do not have to figure out where to go during the stress and confusion of an actual emergency.
