Father Christmas is arriving on a fire engine this year!
Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service do much more than fire-fighting, preventing fires happening in the first place is an important part of our work. To encourage parents to check their smoke alarms this Christmas, a colour in Christmas card for children has been designed with reindeers pulling a fire engine; inside the card there is a reminder to check their smoke alarms.
The cards have been issued to schools throughout Devon and Somerset, complimenting the work we do within local communities throughout the year. These school educational visits inform children of the importance of having a working smoke alarm and what to do in case a fire does break out in their home. The end goal is for the children be inspired and speak to their parents about the importance of fire safety.
85% of people who die in fires don’t have a working smoke alarm.
Checking a smoke alarm only takes a moment and will greatly increase your chances of escaping from a fire unharmed. Without one you, your family and Christmas guests are more than twice as likely to die in a fire at home.
Check that a smoke alarm is fitted on each level of your property:
- Once a year – Change your battery or consider buying a ten-year alarm which will not require frequent battery changes
- Regularly check your alarm – press the button!
- Once a year – Vacuum and wipe the smoke alarm casing to ensure dust isn’t blocking the sensor chamber (For mains wired alarms, switch off first)
Plan an escape route
Make sure your family and guests staying for the festive period know what to do in an emergency. Make a fire escape plan and check everyone knows it.
If a fire does break out in the home, then Get out, Stay out and Call 999.
For more information on smile alarms please visit our website.
