Crews visit homes to cut fire risk

Crews from both fire engines based in the town will be visiting homes in East Marsh, part of the Fiveways area, which has seen the number of domestic fires rise almost 18 per cent from April to December last year, compared with 2012.

Firefighters will inspect homes, give advice and in some cases install smoke detectors.

Station Manager Dom Purchon said: “There are many things which householders can do to keep themselves safe from fire and the advice we can give is simple to follow, but can make a real impact in terms of helping to keep people safe in their homes.

“We will inspect homes to identify any potential risks and will also be talking to residents about the importance of issues like having planned escape routes in the event of a fire, which can make a real difference in terms of surviving and avoiding injury should fire occur.” The campaign starts on February 3.