The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service are urging people to reduce their risk of house fires
As many households continue to struggle with the cost of living, people may have made changes or bought products which could mean they run the risk of a fire. A few simple checks and changes can help keep homes safer, save lives and reduce injuries.
The week of action is supported by fire and rescue services across the UK and covers a range of areas, such as electrical safety, smoking and the dangers of illegal cigarettes and the offer of home safety fire checks and fire safety advice from Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS).
By using the online home safety tool, www.ohfsc.co.uk people can explore whether they – along with loved ones or neighbours – could benefit from advice specific to their needs or even a visit from GFRS. Anybody who believes that they or a family member needs a Safe and Well visit, which covers fire safety and wellbeing can call us on 0800 180 4140 to arrange a visit.
These visits can unlock vital safety help, advice, and solutions, while offering help from a range of organisations. People should make sure they have at least one smoke alarm on every level of their home and carbon monoxide alarms if they have fuel burning appliances such as boilers, open fires, and wood burners. They must be tested regularly to make sure they work.
Prevention Manager, Donna Potts of GFRS, said: “As part of Home Fire Safety Week we are offering help and advice to help people stay safer in their homes. This ranges from simple steps such as installing smoke detection and checking electrical items are safe to how fire services can assist people who are more vulnerable. While we understand the pressures people are currently facing and affordability is a major factor for many, I am hoping that by giving practical help and advice, we can raise awareness and offer useful assistance. Prevention work is at the heart of all fire and rescue service work, and we are here to help.”