27 April 2009

Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service and RNID, the charity representing people who are deaf or hard of hearing, are joining forces during Deaf Awareness Week (4 to 10 May) to remind people how important it is to fit and test specialist smoke alarms. 

Community safety manager Terry Ridgley said: “Many people with hearing loss may be at serious risk in the event of a fire if they don’t have the appropriate smoke alarm fitted.

“It is vital that people who are deaf or hard of hearing ensure they have the right smoke alarm technology in their home to protect them. Anyone in doubt about the alarm they need should contact us for a free home safety check. We are here to help make sure your home is as safe from fire as possible.”

Applications can be emailed to cs@bucksfire.gov.uk or submitted using the online form at https://www.fire.gov.uk/Home+safety/IsYourHomeSafe/HomeVisit.htm

Terry added: “There are a range of alarms available for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, ranging from alarms with strobe lighting, vibrating alarms and small wearable radio-linked pagers. 

“These specialist alarms ensure that even if a householder has taken out his or her hearing aid at night, they will still be alerted if there is a fire in the home.”

Mark Catling from RNID Products, the charity’s not-for-profit retail arm, said: “We are urging anyone who has doubts about their hearing, or anyone who knows someone with hearing difficulties, to take action by calling RNID’s five-minute telephone hearing check.”

You can do this by ringing 0844 800 3838 or visiting www.rnid.org.uk/hearingmatters

For further information about smoke alarms for deaf and hard of hearing people, contact RNID Products on 01733 361199 or textphone 01733 238020 or visit www.rnid.org.uk/shop

For further information about RNID or to become a member, visit www.rnid.org.uk, contact 0808 808 0123 (freephone) or 0808 808 9000 (textphone) or email informationline@rnid.org.uk