Fire service: 'Make a life saving New Year's Resolution' (From Bucks Free Press)

Fire service: 'Make a life saving New Year's Resolution'

11:40am Tuesday 1st January 2013 in News By Neil Phillips

FIREFIGHTERS in Bucks are urging residents to make a potentially life-saving New Year’s resolution to add to their list.

They hope 2013 will be the year that people across the county make sure they have a working smoke alarm installed in their home – and that they check it regularly to make sure it still functions properly.

Assistant Chief Fire Officer Jason Thelwell said: “A smoke alarm can give someone the few extra seconds they need to escape a fire. But while the majority of homes have an alarm fitted, most people are not aware that the average alarm has a lifespan of just 10 years and then needs replacing.

“On top of that, for those who live in a multi-storey home or a large property, a single smoke alarm may simply not be enough.”

Jason’s top tips to help you turn this into your New Year resolution are:

• Test your smoke alarm by pushing the button every week.

• Check the packaging for your smoke alarm to make sure it’s still up to date.

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

• Fit smoke alarms on landing and hallway ceilings and in rooms which have an electrical appliance.

• Take a moment to check on your less able loved ones to ensure they’re fully protected.

Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service offers free safety checks to identify potential fire risks in your home and help you minimise them. The checks include free smoke alarms and free installation.

Ring 01296 744477, email cs@bucksfire.gov.uk or visit www.bucksfire.gov.uk/bucksfire/free

If you are fitting your own smoke alarms, fit one on each level of your home, at least 30 centimetres (12 inches) away from any wall or light fitting, at ceiling level.

Battery-operated smoke alarm units should be replaced after 10 years. Consider installing a mains-powered alarm.