Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 19/01/2009 16:07

Cornwall County Fire Brigade is delivering the stark message to ‘Pull Your Finger Out’ and check your smoke alarm as part of the latest burst of television advertising from the Fire Kills campaign. Although smoke alarm ownership is high, many people don’t realize that not checking alarms regularly puts loved ones and homes at a potentially huge risk.

The advert shows the horrific aftermath of a fire in the home with a burnt out kitchen providing the backdrop to the scene. Julie Walters fronts the adverts which are being shown currently.

Dave Carlisle, Community Safety Officer says, “There are simple steps that we can all take to prevent fires occurring in the home, such as ensuring the home has working smoke alarms and an escape route has been planned. And remember Cornwall County Fire Brigade is at hand to give advice and help keep your family safe.”

Ensuring you stay safe from fire is quick and simple. Cornwall County Fire Brigade has provided five essential fire safety tips to help you protect yourself, your family and your home from fire:

Step 1 - Fit a smoke alarm on each level of the property. When a fire starts, you only have a few minutes to escape so an early warning is vital. Make sure you replace battery operated smoke alarm units after 10 years. Alternatively consider installing a 10-year battery smoke alarm or mains powered alarm.

Step 2 - Test it weekly. A working smoke alarm can buy you valuable time to get out, stay out and dial 999.

Step 3 - Plan your escape route. Make sure you and your family know the quickest way out in the event of fire. Consider an alternative route in case your usual one is blocked.

Step 4 – Stay safe in the kitchen. This is the area where most house fires start. It only takes a minute to check electrical appliances are switched off. Also, never leave cooking unattended.

Step 5 – Ask the experts. Cornwall County Fire Brigade offers free Home Fire Safety Checks to identify potential fire risks and advise what to do to reduce or prevent them. To arrange a Home Fire Safety Check in your home, or for fire safety advice call 0800 3581 999 or visit www.cornwall.gov.uk/fire.

Related item: http://www.cornwall.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=45872#pull