Release date: 24 November 2022
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the new free online home fire safety check tool designed to keep you and your loved ones safe this winter.
As the cost of living increases across the country, taking fire safety precautions to keep your home safe has never been more important.
Last winter (November 2021 to February 2022) firefighters responded to 169 fires in West Sussex homes, and concerns are this figure could increase as people use traditional methods of heating their homes this winter.
To avoid a fire starting accidentally in the home, it is vital that people know how to reduce the risk of fire and understand the potential hazards that sit within each room. Therefore, residents are urged to use the new online home fire safety check tool and get advice on ways to keep safe.
The interactive tool has been developed through a partnership between the National Fire Chief’s Council, Fire Kills and Safelincs and allows users to go through their home one room at a time and spot fire risks.
At the end, users will receive a personalised fire safety action plan to those in the household safe from fire.
Nicki Peddle, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Head of Prevention said: “We’re delighted to be able to offer a new interactive home fire safety tool, as well as our traditional Safe & Well Visits.
“We’d really encourage residents to complete an online home fire safety check, and to do it on behalf of their loved ones who may not have access to the internet, in order spot any potential fire risks in the home and find out how to reduce those risks.
“Particularly vulnerable residents may also be recommended a free Safe and Well Visit, where an advisor will come and visit their home to give further advice and fit fire detection equipment where necessary.”
For cost-of-living support information and advice in West Sussex visit: www.westsussex.gov.uk/CostOfLiving.
