Keep your family secure - fit smoke alarms

Every year the fire brigade is called out to over 600,000 fires which result in over 800 deaths and over 17,000 injuries. 60,000 of these fires are in the home, killing nearly 500 people and injuring over 11,000. Many of these deaths and injuries could be prevented if people had early warning and were able to get out in time.  

Buying and fitting smoke alarms could help save your home and the lives of your family. If you want more information, get in touch with your local fire brigade.  

• Always buy an alarm which has the British Standard Kite mark on it, which is BS 5446, Part One
• Many detectors are operated by a 9-volt battery, available in most supermarkets and DIY shops. Some will work for ten years without a battery change – speak to retailers for advice.
• Others are ‘hard wired’ to your electricity circuit, so you don’t have to worry about any batteries. Electricians can easily fit these for you, if you are unsure how to.
• Fit one on each floor of your home, at least 30 centimetres (12 inches) away from any wall or light fitting. If you have only one alarm, fit it in a place where it can be heard throughout your home - particularly when you are asleep.
• Don't fit them too close to a kitchen or bathroom, where steam can keep setting them off by accident.
• Maintain your smoke alarm!
• Check the battery once a month by pressing the red ‘Test’ button either by hand or with the end of a broom handle and change it once a year. It’s a good idea to choose a memorable date on which to change all the batteries. A birthday for example.
• Don’t be tempted to take batteries out of detectors at Christmas or birthdays to power children’s toys!
• Gently run the nozzle of a vacuum cleaner or duster over the ‘grill’ of the smoke detector once or twice a year, to help keep it free from dust and grime.