Make Fire Safety your New Year’s Resolution

Losing weight, giving up bad or unhealthy habits and doing more exercise are common new year’s resolutions. As 2013 approaches, Mid & West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) would like you to think about making fire safety in the home part of your new year’s resolutions.

Please follow these simple steps to make your home safer for 2013.

• Call MAWWFRS on Freephone 0800 169 1234 for your Home Fire Safety Check (HFSC). They will come round at your convenience, offer home safety advice and fit free smoke alarms. Remember to test them weekly!
• Ensure you have an emergency escape plan, which must include exits for the young and old. An HFSC will enable you to do this.
• Before going to bed, remember to close all doors and turn off any electrical appliances. Don’t leave them on ‘Standby’.
• Make sure your keys are readily available to unlock external doors, but not visible from outside.
• Make sure any alternative exits can be opened in an emergency. Don’t block doorways or hallways.
• In the event of a fire, get everyone out, then telephone 999 from outside, closing doors as you leave. Never attempt to put a fire out yourself.

Community Safety Support Manager Beverley Davies said “Your smoke alarms are a vital protection from the danger of fire in your home. They provide an early warning of danger, giving your family precious time to get out of your home quickly”.

“Please take advantage of the free HFSC’s which include the free fitting of smoke alarms where needed and helpful safety advice. It could prove to be the best New Year’s resolution you’ve ever made.”