Firefighters took to the streets in Edenbridge on Saturday 15 March to raise awareness of
fire safety in the home.

Edenbridge fire crews, supported by Kent Fire and Rescue Service’s community safety team, were in Farmstead Drive between 10am and 3pm − with their fire appliance − encouraging local residents to take advantage of the free home fire safety check service on offer to the community.

The free checks take about 30 minutes to carry out and firefighters will visit your home to identify potential fire hazards and fit if required free 10-year smoke alarms.

They will give home fire safety advice and help you make an escape plan should fire break out
in your home.

Edenbridge Watch Manager Gary Milan said: “Almost all fires in the homes can be prevented so I would urge local residents to come forward to take up this offer of a free home fire safety check. The advice on offer has the potential to save you or a loved one from the devastating effects of fire.”

He added: “If people can’t make it down to see us but would like to arrange an appointment, they can call for free on 0800 923 7000.”

Ensuring you stay safe from fire is quick and simple. Follow these five essential fire safety tips to help you protect yourself, your family and your home from fire:

• Fit a smoke alarm on each level of your home. When a fire starts, you only have a few minutes to escape so an early warning is vital.

• Test it weekly. A working smoke alarm can buy you valuable time to get out, stay out and dial 999.

• Plan your escape route. Make sure you and your family know the quickest way out in the event of fire. Consider an alternative route in case your usual one is blocked.

• Stay safe in the kitchen. This is the area where most house fires start. It only takes a minute to check electrical appliances are switched off. Also, never leave cooking unattended.

• Ask the experts. Kent Fire and Rescue Service offer free home fire safety checks to identify potential fire risks and advise what to do to reduce or prevent them. The checks take about 30 minutes and include if required free 10-year smoke alarms.

To arrange a free Home Fire Safety Check or to find out more call Kent Fire and Rescue Service for free on 0800 923 7000 or visit their website www.kent.fire-uk.org

Fire safety officers will visit you home at a time that suits you.