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Get spring off to a good start by becoming fire smart

Get spring started by making sure your smoke alarms work and complete a Home Fire Risk Check in order to make sure you and your family are safe from fire.

With the clocks going forward on the 25 March signalling the start of British summer time there is no better time to test and maintain your smoke alarms at the same time as changing your clocks.

It takes just a minute to maintain this small item, but could save you and your family’s lives:

  • Once a week test the battery by pressing the test button until the alarm sounds.
  • Twice a year open the case and gently vacuum the inside to remove dust from the sensor. If it doesn't open, vacuum through the holes.
  • If the alarm ever starts to 'beep' regularly, replace the battery as soon as possible.
  • Once a year change the battery (unless it is a 10-year alarm).
  • After 10 years it's best to replace your smoke alarm with a whole new unit.

Make sure you and your family are fully aware of the fire hazards which commonly exist throughout the home. Complete our on-line Home Fire Risk Check to identify fire hazards, at the end of the questionnaire you will find tips on how you could make your home safer.

When you change your clock, test your smoke alarm

 

A clock on a mantel piece about a fire place.

Slowly zooming in so the clock fills the screen.  The ticking of a clock can be heard as background noise.

Screen Caption: We all lose an hour's sleep on the 25th March.

The glass on the clock face starts to melt.

The plastic surround of the clock begins to melt.

Screen Caption: Some might lose a lot more.

The clock continues to melt and then catches fire.

Screen Caption: When you change your clock test your smoke alarm. 

 

This safety advice is offered as guidance only. If in doubt, Get out, Stay out and get the Fire and Rescue Service out!