As part of the Fire Kills campaign, Devon & Somerset & Fire & Rescue Service is asking everyone to clear the clutter that may be blocking their escape routes, to make sure their family, guests and loved ones know how to get out, stay out, and call 999 in the event of a fire.

Working smoke alarms are regularly the heroes in a fire, giving everyone the warning they need to get out of their home in a fire.  But blocked exits, locked doors or unfamiliar surroundings can shave vital seconds from their escape time.

We all know we need to take time to test our smoke alarms, but this week make time for your home and take some simple steps to help keep your loved ones safe:

1. Think about how you’d all get out in case of a fire, Making an escape plan and practising it will help ensure that everyone can get out, stay out and call 999
2. Fit at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home so smoke can reach the alarms quicker giving you more warning time.
3. Test your smoke alarms regularly. Smoke alarms can save your life, but only if they work.
4. Clear your escape routes. Make sure you’re able to escape without tripping over to ensure a speedy exit
5. Keep your door and window keys in a known and accessible place. Make sure everyone knows where the door and window keys are kept so they can reach them easily and get out quicker in case of a fire.

Many of us care for others, children and loved ones. If this is you then consider the following:

• ·         How will they get out? Plan an escape route that works for them and think of any difficulties they may have or help they may need getting out. Would they benefit from a torch to light their way or a stair rail?
• ·         Where is the best place to go if the worst happens and they can’t escape?  This is especially important if they have trouble moving around or can’t get downstairs on their own.

Do you have an escape champ?

If not, nominate someone in your home (perhaps a child) to be a ‘escape champ’. Role-playing escape routes regularly and giving children the responsibility to keep escape routes clear makes fire safety more fun and engaging.

Marc House, Community Safety Prevention Manager said: “Just two to three breaths of toxic smoke could leave you unconscious, so every second counts when escaping a fire. Having working smoke alarms and knowing the escape plan in an emergency could make all the difference.

“If you have dependants or someone less able to care for, it could take more time to get out, stay out and call 999. Make sure you’re always prepared, your exits are clear and everyone knows what to do if the worst should happen.”

Make the call to request free Home Safety advice call free on: now 0800 05 02 999. For any other fire safety advice, contact the Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue helpline on: 01392 872288 or visit our website www.dsfire.gov.uk