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Reminder to test smoke alarms regularly and save lives

Published
As part of the Fire Kills campaign, Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) is asking people to test their smoke alarms regularly and make testing them part of their regular household routine.

Residents are being encouraged to make fire safety a priority by ensuring they have enough smoke alarms in the home and that they work.

It only takes a few seconds and saves lives. Smoke alarms can give someone the few extra seconds they need to escape in a fire.

While the majority of homes across the country now have an alarm fitted, most people are not aware that the average alarm has a lifespan of just ten years and then needs replacing.

The Fire Kills campaign and GFRS are asking people in the county to make sure that their alarms are up to date and up to the job.

To keep your alarms in working order follow these tips:

• Make sure there is at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home

• Test your smoke alarms by pushing the button every month

• Check that your smoke alarms are less than 10 years old

• Change the batteries every year. Never remove them.

• Fit smoke alarms in the right place - on landings and hallways and near bedrooms. Also consider fitting them in rooms which have electrical appliances, such as a heater or charger, or other fire risks

• Take a moment to check on your loved ones who may need help to ensure they’re fully protected.

Mark Preece, Chief Fire Officer, said: “Smoke alarms can offer vital protection for you and your loved ones, but most people simply fit and forget – they don’t know if it might be coming to the end of its lifespan or not working at all.

“The vast majority of us now have at least one smoke alarm in our homes, but early detection and warning is vital to reduce the devastation a fire in the home can cause.”

Cllr Dave Norman, cabinet member with responsibility for the Fire and Rescue Service, said: “For most of us, there is nothing more important than keeping our loved ones safe and secure. So if your alarm is getting past its best or your top floor is missing an alarm of its own, fit new ones, test them at least once a month and protect your loved ones.”

For advice specific to you and your home, visit www.ohfsc.co.uk and complete your own home fire safety check. For further information, visit: fireengland.uk/fire-safety and Smoke Alarm Advice - Glosfire (gloucestershire.gov.uk)