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26 September 07
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to book a free home fire safety check in the wake of this week’s serious house fire in Todmorden.
Extensive damage was caused to the house on Monday morning, which could have been avoided by the fitting of smoke detectors.
Dave Thewlis, Todmorden Fire Station Manager, said: “If this fire had occurred during the night, lives almost certainly would have been lost.
“Correctly fitted and operating smoke alarms sound in the early stages of a fire, often alerting occupiers and passers by. This early warning is crucial for the effective survival of occupants, alerting them prior to the build-up of life-threatening toxic smoke.”
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service carries out free home fire safety checks, which involve advice and the fitting of free smoke detectors.
Last year more than 57,000 homes were visited, some of which have already experienced the benefits of smoke alarms.
SM Thewlis added: “These alarms really do save lives and, since their introduction, on average more than 20 people a year have been saved from certain death by their intervention.”
To arrange a free home safety check , which usually takes about 30 minutes, please call West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service on 0800 587 4536. The call is free and visits are carried out seven days a week, from 9am to 9pm.
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For further information contact Kelly Thornham in the Media and PR Unit on 01274 655807.