Below are some key safety tips - by following these you will substantially reduce the chances of fire harming you, your family or your home.

Top 10 fire safety tips

• Fit smoke alarms on each level in your home. Keep them free from dust and test them once a week. Consider buying a 10-year alarm; otherwise change the batteries in your alarm every year.
• Make a fire action plan so that everyone in your home knows how to escape if there is a fire.
• Keep exits clear so you can escape if there is a fire. Keys for doors and windows should be in easy reach to get out.
• Take extra care in the kitchen - accidents while cooking account for over half of fires in homes.
• Take extra care cooking with oil.
• Never leave burning candles unattended.
• Make sure cigarettes are stubbed out properly, disposed of carefully and never smoke in bed.
• Close all doors at night.
• Don't overload electrical sockets. Remember one plug for one socket.
• Don't leave the TV or other electrical appliances on standby as this could cause a fire. Always switch it off and unplug when not in use.

If you are concerned about fire safety within your property or to have a smoke detector fitted free of charge you can give the fire safety officer a call and they will be happy to arrange a fire safety check at your premises.

The number to ring is 0800 923 7000

TIP:    KEEP A TORCH HANDY    A FIRE MAY CAUSE A POWER CUT