A kitchen fire in an East Slope flat was brought quickly under control yesterday evening, 19 March, with all residents in the affected flat and those nearby being safely evacuated.  

The fire, which was started accidentally, resulted in six flats in Camber being evacuated, with no injuries to any of the students concerned. Our Estates team sprang into action quickly, liaising with the Fire Service who were on the scene within 15 minutes of the alarm sounding, and helping to move affected students for the night. Our Residential Life team has also been on-hand to support students.  

One student flat will be out of action whilst repairs are made, with students being moved to new accommodation nearby. All other students in the block will be able to safely return to their accommodation.  

The effects of the fire were reduced as the fire doors remained closed, and the automatically opening vents within the building activated immediately the fire alarm operated to reduce the effects of smoke. 

Thank you to all the students who cooperated with the University staff. 

How you can help keep everyone safe from fire 

This incident proves the value of fire doors and making sure they are always closed; the significant damage has remained in just one room. 

Remember when cooking, to allow rubbish to cool before throwing it away. 

Remember to remove rubbish frequently from kitchen areas. 

In the event of a fire alarm activation, respond swiftly and move to a place of safety outside of the building as quickly as possible.