Firefighters are encouraging residents to make fire safety a priority.
Avon Fire & Rescue Service is urging people to ensure they have enough smoke alarms in their home, and that they work.
As part of the Fire Kills campaign, they are asking people to test their smoke alarms regularly, and make testing them part of their household routine.
While the majority of homes across the country now have alarms fitted, the fire service say that the average alarm has a lifespan of just 10 years before it needs to be replaced.
The service is advising:
- 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 loved ones who may need help to ensure they’re fully protected.
Prevention manager, Nikki Rice 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.
“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, complete your own free home fire safety check.