7 April 2009

Firefighters are urging people to check their smoke alarms following a shed fire in Milton Keynes this morning.

Two crews and appliances from Great Holm were called to the fire in Denchworth Court, Emerson Valley, at 6.20am where a fire, which is believed to have started in the shed from an electrical defect, had spread to the house.

Watch Manager Lee Bloom, who was at the incident, said: “Although there were two smoke alarms in the house neither had working batteries. Fortunately, a neighbour noticed the fire and was able to alert the occupant”.

He added: “A house fitted with working smoke detectors - and people reacting to them - gives us a much better chance of saving lives.”

Firefighters were able to contain the fire using two hose reel, two sets of breathing apparatus and a fan.

The crews fitted smoke detectors while at the scene and will be returning to complete a full Home Fire Risk Check tomorrow.  

Terry Ridgley, head of Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service's Community Safety team, said: “Nationally, 80 per cent of the population own smoke alarms, but statistics show that in one in every eight house fires attended by fire and rescue services, the smoke alarm failed to work, largely due to flat or missing batteries.”

Terry added: “When fires break out, which is often during the night, smoke alarms provide a vital early warning sign - indeed, they are often your ONLY warning.”

Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service will carry out a free safety check of your home and fit free smoke detectors where necessary.

Smoke alarms detect fires at their earliest stages and give a loud warning to help you and your family to get out safely.

Ring 01296 744477, send an email to cs@bucksfire.gov.uk or use the online form to book an appointment.

Advice if you are fitting your own smoke alarms:

• Fit one smoke detector to each floor at least 30 centimetres (12 inches) away from any wall or light fitting at ceiling level.
  
• Make sure your detector has the British Standard Kitemark on it.
  
• If you have a one-year smoke detector, test the battery once a week and change the battery annually. Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service recommends 10-year tamper-free detectors fitted with push buttons. These are available from all DIY stores.