Devon and Somerset fire brigade launch campaign to prevent fatalities

THE fire brigade has launched a campaign aimed at people who live alone and could be at risk of fire.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service crews have attended four fatal fires since April this year which have all involved a person living alone.

As part of Operation Home Alone, the service's community safety department will specifically target members of the community that are most at risk.

The campaign will include people who live alone and have traditionally been the most difficult to engage with, including the young, old and those who have alternative living arrangements.

Firefighters and other fire service staff, members of local groups such as parish councils and neighbourhood watches, and the public will be asked to provide details of people they know who may be at risk from fire to the fire service.

Once an individual has been identified, then the community safety department will write to them offering fire safety advice, through a home fire safety visit.

Contact will be also made with local partner support agencies to determine if they have previously had contact with those individuals identified.

The service does not 'cold call' people to offer fire safety advice without making a prior appointment.

Assistant chief fire officer Pete Smith said: "Most fires can be prevented and we are urging members of the public to help us to prevent needless deaths and injuries.

"All we are asking is for people to give us an hour of their time for us to visit, offer advice and if necessary fit a smoke detector."

People who have any concerns about their friends or neighbours are asked to contact the fire service on 0800 7311 822.