Protect your family from the devastation of house fire

Despite 91% of homes in England having the warning system, smoke alarms only alerted residents to fire on 45% of occasions.

Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service station manager Mark Whitelaw said: “Early detection and warning of a fire is vital in protecting you and your loved ones from the devastation a fire can cause, that’s why we are appealing to people this January to make a new year’s resolution to ensure they have smoke alarms on every level of their home, that they are fitted in the correct place and that they are tested on a weekly basis.

“The latest research shows that in cases where smoke alarms failed to alert occupants to a fire, it was because they weren’t fitted in the right place. Smoke alarms should always be fitted to the ceiling, the best place being hallways, landings, near to sleeping areas, and in rooms where there are electrical appliances.

“It’s also important to remember that smoke alarms don’t last forever. The power might work, but the detection mechanism deteriorates with time. So whether they are battery operated or wired to the mains, to work at their best they should be replaced every ten years.”

The fire service offers these top tips to keep your loved ones safe:

*Install at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home

*Test your smoke alarms weekly.

*Fit your smoke alarms in the right place. The ideal position is on the ceiling in the middle of a room, or in a hallway or landing.

*Consider fitting additional alarms in other rooms where there are electrical appliances and near sleeping areas.

*Do not put alarms in, or near kitchens and bathrooms where smoke or steam can set them off by accident – consider a heat alarm for kitchens instead.

*Replace your smoke alarms every ten years.

Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service is also urging carers and people who keep a close eye on elderly or vulnerable relatives, friends or neighbours. Station manager Whitelaw said: “With the current Covid restrictions we realise people aren’t visiting relatives, neighbours and friends as much.

“Give them a call and speak to them about fire safety – ask them how many smoke alarms they have? When they were last tested and ensure they know what to do in the event of a fire – they should never attempt to tackle the fire, they should get out of the house, stay out and call 999 immediately.

“If they aren’t able to check their alarms themselves, please consider making a socially distanced visit to check their home is fire safe.”