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Make Smoke Alarms A Priority!

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How Many Smoke Alarms Do You Have? 

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, in partnership with the Fire Kills campaign, is asking people to make sure they fit smoke alarms on every level of their home and to test them regularly.  

While January often brings a fresh start, fire safety should always be at the top of your list. A working smoke alarm provides critical early warning in the event of a fire, giving you and your family vital seconds to escape safely. 

Latest fire statistics reveal that one smoke alarm may not be enough to provide the best chance of escaping a fire. Fires outside the range of a smoke alarm are the most common reason they fail to activate. That is why it is so important to have alarms installed on every level of your home, particularly in hallways, landings and sleeping areas. 

Prevention Manager Lisa Priestman said:

“Most of us know that a working smoke alarm can save lives, but it’s not just about having one - it’s about having enough and ensuring they are placed correctly. Smoke alarms are your home’s early warning system, and when they go off, they should never be ignored or seen as a nuisance. They are there to help and can potentially save yours and others lives.” 

Responding to Your Smoke Alarm 

Alarms may signal different things, such as: 

  • A chirping sound could mean the battery needs replacing or the device is faulty. 
  • An alarm sounding without any visible fire may indicate smoke, heat, or another issue you can’t see. 

Never remove the batteries or disable your smoke alarm. If you’re unsure why your alarm is activating, check the device or call East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service for advice.  

If you have any questions about fire safety in the home, we offer a free Home safety check service. If you would like to find out more and see if you are eligible you can: 

  • call us on 0800 177 7069 

In an emergency always call 999. 

Smoke Alarm Top Tips 

We recommend these essential steps to stay safe: 

  • 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. 
  • Consider fitting additional alarms in other rooms where there are electrical appliances and near sleeping areas. 
  • Don’t put alarms in or near kitchens and bathrooms where smoke or steam can set them off by accident. 
  • Replace your smoke alarms every ten years. 

Look Out for Others 

Carers and neighbours are also encouraged to check that less able relatives or friends have enough smoke alarms installed and that they’re working and positioned correctly. Don’t ignore a beeping smoke alarm from a neighbour – it could save lives. 

Other Useful links: 

  • You can complete your own home fire safety check online at www.ohfsc.co.uk  

Make fire safety a priority this year – it could save a life. 

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