This month, we’re encouraging everyone across Herefordshire and Worcestershire to check that they have working smoke alarms installed in their homes.
Purchasing a smoke alarm isn’t optional, it’s lifesaving. It’s essential to know how to identify smoke alarms that meet safety regulations and to understand exactly where they should be installed to give you and your family the best possible early protection.
We’re highlighting our key safety tips and raising awareness of the vulnerable groups who are at greater risk of fire, particularly those who do not have a smoke alarm, or whose alarm are not working.
Top Tips for Smoke Alarm Purchasing and Placement
- Only buy smoke alarms that are British Standard 5446: Part 1 and display the kite mark.
- Install at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home.
- Fit your smoke alarms in the right place. The ideal position is on the ceiling, in the middle of a room or on a hallway or landing.
- Replace your smoke alarms every ten years.
Protecting those most vulnerable to fire risks
- Older adults (65+): Higher risk due to reduced mobility, health conditions, or difficulty escaping quickly.
- People living alone: No one else present to raise the alarm or help in an emergency.
- Smokers: Smoking indoors or carelessly is a leading cause of fatal house fires.
- People with health conditions: Physical or cognitive impairments can make reacting to a fire or alarm more difficult.
- Individuals affected by substance misuse: Alcohol or drugs can slow reactions and impair judgement.
- People who hoard: Clutter increases fire spread and can block escape routes.
- Young children: Under‑fives are especially vulnerable due to limited awareness and ability to escape.
Expert Advice
‘Smoke alarms save lives, but only if they are present and working and over the last 3 years, 24% of properties where dwelling fire had occurred didn’t have a smoke alarm present. Therefore, this Smoke Alarm Purchasing Month, we’re urging everyone across Herefordshire and Worcestershire to take a simple but vital step: make sure you have enough smoke alarms in your home and that they’re tested regularly. By looking out for friends, family, neighbours, and others in our community, especially those who may be older, living alone, or otherwise vulnerable, we can all play a part in keeping people safe. A few minutes spent helping someone check or purchase alarms could be the difference that prevents a tragedy’.
Emma Roberts, Head of Prevention
More Advice
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