Oxford,
14
November
2017
|
15:50
Europe/London

Smoke Alarms save lives: But only if they are working

Smoke Alarms save lives: But only if they are working

Oxfordshire County Council’s Fire and Rescue Service are urging residents to test smoke alarms regularly.

The Local Government Association warned that almost 40% of battery-powered smoke alarms failed to activate in residential fires in England in the past year. Figures show that more than a fifth of households never test their smoke alarm and one in 10 homes do not even have a smoke alarm.

Smoke alarms are the best and easiest way to alert you to the danger of fire, giving you and your family precious time to escape. They should be fitted on each level in your home and in areas where they can be heard when you and your family are asleep.

It takes seconds to test a smoke alarm, so make sure it is tested regularly. If you know of a relative, friend or neighbour who has difficulty testing or reaching their smoke alarms, you could help by testing their smoke alarm.

Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service Station Manager Chris Barber said “don’t delay, test your smoke alarm on a regular basis, it could save you and your family’s lives.”

http://www.365alive.co.uk/cms/content/smoke-alarms-0

Visit www.365alive.co.uk for Community Safety advice.

If you have a Community Safety question please call the free phone helpline on 08000 325 999 or email: community.safety@oxfordshire.gov.uk