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Fit a smoke alarm. A smoke alarm can save your life. You can get one for under £5 from a DIY, electrical or hardware shop. Some garages and supermarkets also sell them.

Buy a smoke alarm that has a British Standard Kitemark on it and ensure it conforms to BS 5446.  Follow the instructions to fit it.

Fit a smoke alarm between the living areas and the bedrooms. Ideally, you should fit one in every room except the kitchen and bathroom.

Make sure you can hear it throughout your home, especially in the bedrooms.

Test your smoke alarm

Once a week test each alarm by pressing the test button till the alarm sounds.

Once a year change the battery (unless it's a ten-year alarm).

Twice a year open the case and gently vacuum the inside using the soft-brush attachment to remove dust from the sensors. If it doesn't open, vacuum through the holes.

After 10 years it's best to get a whole new alarm.

Smoke alarms for the deaf

You can also buy smoke alarms that have a vibrating pad or a flashing light if you have difficulty hearing. You can get more information from the Royal National Institute for the Deaf on 020 7296 8000.