Free Home Fire Safety Check
The Community Safety Forum has awarded over £7000 of funding to be used in partnership with Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service to buy smoke alarms for their home fire safety check project. The project, which focuses on firefighters taking a proactive role in the community by attempting to prevent fires from occurring, was launched in January 2005.
During the home safety check the firefighters, who work in pairs, advise householders on 'fire safety' matters such as
- the safe use of electrical appliances, smoker’s materials and candles.
- They also highlight the potential hazards of cooking.
The visit ends with the testing of any smoke alarms in the home, and if need be, supply and fit a replacement free of charge.
Firefighters who have been carrying out the checks have also gained from the project, saying it is "a positive experience with good feedback from the public", and "I can’t see how it can’t make a difference".
The Convener of the Lothian and Borders Fire Board, Ken Harrold, said, "We welcome the provision of funding for these smoke alarms, which will allow us to fully complete our home safety checks and fit smoke alarms where necessary. However, the fitting of a smoke alarm is only the first step and owners should look after them and check them regularly".
The Convener of Scottish Borders Council, Alasdair Hutton, said "I am fully behind anything which will make people safer in their homes. This initiative will make people more aware of the dangers of fire and how to prevent it or cope with it if it should break out, and is of tremendous value to everyone who lives in the Borders."
If you or someone you know would like a free home safety check, please telephone Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service free on 0800 169 0320 to arrange a suitable appointment.
Unified Solutions.