Never disconnect or take the batteries out of your smoke alarms, even if they go off by mistake.

Don’t put alarms in or near kitchens or bathrooms where smoke or steam can set them off by accident. The ideal position is on the ceiling, in the middle of a room, or in the hallway and landing.

Make testing your smoke alarms part of your regular household routine. Press the button until the alarm sounds. If it doesn’t sound, you need to replace the battery.

For a free home safety check, with free smoke alarms fitted where needed, contact Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service on 01296 744477 or send an email to cs@bucksfire.gov.uk