Deaf Awareness Week promotes positive aspects relating to deafness and social inclusion and raises awareness of the huge range of local organisations that support deaf people and their family and friends. It is important that safety is not overlooked.

During Deaf Awareness Week, East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service takes the opportunity to remind everyone of the importance of having a working smoke alarm in their home and, more specifically, for those people who are deaf or hard of hearing to ensure that they have the most suitable alarm for their individual circumstances.

This is especially important for deaf people living in rented accommodation. Although the landlord may have installed smoke alarms, they may not be aware that residents who are deaf or hard of hearing have different requirements.

Residents who are deaf or hard of hearing may need different types of alert to make them aware that the alarm has been activated. Alarms can be fitted with vibrating pads and/or flashing strobe lights.

For further information on the different types of free smoke alarms that are available, please contact East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service's Home Safety Team on 0800 1777069 or use our online booking service.