Residents in Worcester are encouraged to declutter their homes in an effort to increase fire safety by making escape routes free of obstacles.
Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service’s Fire Kills Campaign hopes to reduce the risks of blocked exits causing unnecessary casualties in the event of fires in the home.
Although working smoke alarms give people in the home necessary warnings during a fire, clutter around escape routes can lead to residents inhaling smoke whilst attempting to leave a property which risks leaving escapees trapped and unconscious due to smoke inhalation.
Emma Roberts, HWFRS Head of Prevention, 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 dependents 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, exits are clear and everyone knows what to do if the worst should happen.”
Homeowners should consider how themselves and anyone else including children in their properties will escape in the event of a fire.
Keys to doors and windows should be kept in known and accessible places reducing escape times.
Smoke alarms should be fitted on every level of the home and should be tested weekly.
Residents should consider whether anyone in the home would benefit from having a torch or a light to use in the event of a fire.
They should also think about where the best place may be to go if in unfortunate circumstances someone is unable to escape during a fire. This is especially important for people who have trouble moving around or who cannot get downstairs on their own.
Parents will children are encouraged to role play escape routes regularly, giving children the responsibility to keep escape routes clear and making fire safety more fun and engaging.
Anyone who thinks they might qualify for a free Home Fire Safety Visit can call the HWFRS Prevention team on 0800 032 1155.
Home Fire Safety Checks offer people the opportunity to get invaluable advice from HWFRS about planning escape routes, positioning alarms and ensuring that appropriate working smoke alarms are fitted in their homes.
Visit: www.safelincs.co.uk/hfsc/ to complete a free home fire safety check.
