In 1999 there were 58,284 accidental fires in the home in the UK, causing 413 deaths, 12,600 injuries and costing many millions of pounds in damage to property. Many fires in the home start at night so think about your bedtime safety routine.

A bedtime fire safety routine will help to keep the family safe.

·         Switch off and unplug all electrical appliances not designed to stay on.

·         Make sure no cigarettes or pipes are still burning.

·         Never smoke in bed.

·         Before emptying ashtrays make sure the contents are cold.

·         Switch off portable heaters.

·         Close the doors to all rooms.

In addition to a bedtime fire safety routine.

·         A correctly installed and working smoke alarm can give early warning allowing you and your family those valuable extra minutes to make your escape.

·         Make sure it conforms to BS 5446 and carries the ‘kitemark’.

·         Test the smoke alarm monthly.

·         Change the battery annually.