Change your clocks and test your smoke alarms!
This weekend when you change your clock take an extra moment to test your smoke alarm and check the battery is still working.
We all make sure our clocks are telling the right time, so it’s amazing to think that many people forget to ensure the safety of themselves and their loved ones by not testing their smoke alarms regularly.
Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service are supporting the Fire Kills campaign by reminding people to test their smoke alarms as they change their clocks this weekend - Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 October – it could save your life.
The twice-yearly clock change is a task that everybody takes for granted. Turning the clocks back for an extra hour in bed will already be on the ‘to-do’ list for the majority of British households over the clock change weekend.
A working smoke alarm can buy you valuable time to get out, stay out and call 999. Half of all householders who own a smoke alarm say that they test it’s working on a regular basis.
Did you know that you’re four times as likely to die in a fire if your smoke alarm is not working?
There were 972 accidental fires in the home in Devon & Somerset last year, which resulted in 6 deaths and 60 injuries. The Fire Kills Campaign hopes that by adding this simple check to the clock-change routine, many more lives could be saved.
Phil Martin, Community Safety, Area Manager of Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service said: “Everyone soon notices when a clock stops ticking, but it’s not so easy to be sure that your smoke alarm is still in working order. Whether the battery is flat, has been used for a kid’s toy or the connection is loose, everyone should take the time to test.
“We’re all looking forward to getting that extra hours sleep at the end of British Summer Time, but knowing that your smoke alarm is in working order could help you sleep that little bit better. As you put your clocks back this weekend, remember to also push the button on your smoke alarm– it could save your life.”
Help keep yourself and your loved ones safe in the home by following these simple steps:
● A working smoke alarm can buy you valuable time to get out, stay out and call 999. Make sure you fit one on every level of your home and test them regularly.
● Make testing your smoke alarm part of your household routine. Check the alarm by pressing the button regularly; change your battery once a year or invest in a 10-year alarm; and clean the alarm casing twice a year to ensure dust isn't blocking the sensor.
● Whatever happens, never remove the battery in your smoke alarm.
● Make sure that everyone in your home knows what to do in a fire and practise your escape route.
● For more information visit the Fire Kills campaign’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/firekills
If you want an extra nudge to test your smoke alarm regularly, try setting an automatic reminder. Safelincs, in partnership with the Fire Kills has created a free service that reminds you, by email or text, when it’s time to test your smoke alarm, change the battery or renew the unit. The service is completely free and can be cancelled at any time. www.safelincs.co.uk/reminders
