Tick Tock Test your smoke alarm this clock change weekend

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is taking part in the Fire Kills campaign this coming clock change weekend. The Service is determined to prevent as many fire deaths as possible and encourages everyone to test their smoke alarms when they change their clocks on the 27 October.

The Fire Kills campaign have launched a memorable phrase – Tick, Tock, Test – which provides a catchy reminder to hopefully prompt everyone into action when changing all your timepieces throughout your home.

Smoke alarms do save lives, but only if they work. With 203 people dying in fires in the home last year in England and over 70% not being alerted to the fire by a smoke alarm, it is essential that everyone test their smoke alarms regularly.

A working smoke alarm can buy you and your family valuable seconds that you will need to get out, stay out and call 999. Did you know you’re four times more likely to die in a fire if your smoke alarm is not working?

Alan Coxon Community Safety Prevention Manager said: "Tick, Tock, Test is straight talking and easy to remember. It’s a great link to clock change weekend and a reminder how important it is to test your smoke alarm.  

"Everyone soon notices when a clock stops ticking, but it’s not so easy to be sure that your smoke alarm is still in working order. Whether the battery is flat, has been used for a kid’s toy or the connection is loose, everyone should take the time to test.  Over half the people who died in home fires last year in England were 65 years old or above, so this is also a perfect opportunity to test alarms for older relatives who might find it hard to reach their alarms but are at far greater risk.

"By pushing the ‘test’ button on every smoke alarm, you could save the lives of your nearest and dearest – children, parents, friends and pets alike."

So this coming clock change weekend, remember – Tick, Tock, Test!

Visit the Fire Service's webpage for more information on smoke alarms.