Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

at 01/09/2

PUSH THE BUTTON NOT YOUR LUCK!


Government and Cornwall County Fire Brigade launch campaign to check smoke alarms

The smoke alarm is the nations most popular invention. Chances are you have one in your home. But when was the last time you tested the battery? Do you even have a battery in your alarm?

Nationally, you are twice as likely to die in a fire in your home if you do not have a working smoke alarm. This is a huge human cost for failing to do something as simple as checking your smoke alarm.

This September, Cornwall County Fire Brigade is launching a hard-hitting national campaign urging people to check their smoke alarm batteries once a week. Push the Button! Not Your Luck!

Worryingly, although around 80% of the population now own smoke alarms, fire statistics show that many of these alarms are not functioning due to flat or missing batteries.
Davinia Grist, Public Relations Officer said:

Previous fire safety campaigns have been very successful in increasing the number of smoke alarms in people's homes. However, a smoke alarm is useless if it is not in working order. It is imperative that people check their smoke alarms regularly.

She cont: Nuisance alarms needn't go off if they are situated correctly. And never, ever remove batteries for use in other electrical appliances¨

Here are some essential tips to ensure your smoke alarm can save your life in the event of a fire:

Fit smoke alarms on every level of your home
Check the battery once a week
Replace the battery every twelve months
Battery smoke alarm units should be replaced every ten years
Consider installing ten year smoke alarms or hard wired alarms
Do not put smoke alarms in the kitchen

The campaign will feature TV, radio and press advertising and is supported by the Fire and Rescue Service in England and Wales and the Partners in Fire Prevention: Ei Electronics, Energizer, esure, Help the Aged, Homebase, Lloyspharmacy and Woolworths.

Further information about smoke alarm maintenance and fire safety advice can be found at www.firekills.gov.uk