New survey reveals Warwickshire families and homes at danger from fire!
Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service is delivering the stark message to residents - ‘Pull Your Finger Out’ and check your smoke alarm, as part of a new government campaign launched today.
According to new survey results from the Fire Kills campaign and TNS4 93% of West Midlands households polled have a smoke alarm, however a 78% of those do not test their alarm often enough, risking the safety of homes and loved ones.
Latest statistics from Communities and Local Government (CLG) show that on average, there are around 300 accidental house fires in Warwickshire each year, injuring around 40 people. If you don’t own a working smoke alarm, you are twice as likely to die in a fire2. That is why WFRS is supporting CLG’s Fire Kills Campaign: ‘Pull your finger out’.
Area Risk Manager, David Vazquez says:
“Despite the fact a high number of people in Warwickshire own a smoke alarm, a disturbing number do not maintain their alarms on a weekly basis.
“The message is simple – smoke alarms save lives, but only if they work! We’re urging all residents to pull their fingers out and test their smoke alarms – this simple action could save the lives of their, loved ones.”
A new wave of TV advertising is accompanying the campaign. Fronted by Julie Walters, the advert highlights the devastating and potentially fatal consequences of not testing your alarm often enough. Running from January 15 to March 9, the advert shows the aftermath of a fire in the home with a burnt out kitchen providing the backdrop to the scene.
Apathy seems to be the main reason that people from West Midlands do not test their smoke alarms, with 32% of people attributing forgetfulness, being too busy or just simply ‘can’t be bothered’ to do an action that only takes a few seconds and could potentially save their lives!
Ensuring you stay safe from fire is quick and simple.
WFRS 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. WFRS offer free home fire risk checks to identify potential fire risks and advise what to do to reduce or prevent them. To find out more log onto http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/fireandresuce
For more information visit http://www.firekills.gov.uk