Firefighters have warned that every second is crucial if a fire breaks out in your home as they urge residents to check how safe their property is in a free online assessment.
County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) is encouraging people to spend just 15 minutes completing the free home fire safety check via the national Safelincs website to discover any hazards in their house and the simple things they can do to protect themselves and their loved ones from fire.
Residents who complete the assessment may be eligible for a free Home Fire Safety Visit from firefighters who will provide safety advice and fit smoke alarms.
It comes as figures from CDDFRS show that firefighters attended 202 accidental house fires from January to December 2025.
Kevin Bell, Station Manager of Community Safety, said: “Smoke alarms save lives.
“If a fire breaks out in your home, every second is crucial, so the earlier you are warned, the greater the chance of making it out safely.
“Fires can start in any room, at any time.
“That’s why it is so important to have a working smoke alarm on every floor of your home to alert you and to test them every week.
“We also cannot stress enough the importance keeping doors closed whenever possible, particularly at night, which can significantly slow the spread of fire and smoke, helping to protect lives and property.
“We’d always urge people to never use a tumble dryer overnight or when not home and unplug electrical appliances when you’re not using them.
“Remember, if a fire does break out in your home to get out, stay out and call 999.”
To check how safe your home is and whether you are eligible for a free Home Fire Safety Visit (HSFV) from CDDFRS, click here.
Anyone who does not have access to the internet or needs assistance in completing the assessment can call CDDFRS on 0345 223 4221.
Smoke alarms can be bought from major retailers and installed by residents.
To check a smoke alarm is working, press the test button until it sounds.
If it fails to go off, the batteries may need replacing or you may need to replace the smoke alarm itself depending on the type of alarm you have.
Firefighters will install smoke alarms to those who qualify for a HFSV.
For more home fire safety advice, click here.
Caption: Station Manager Kevin Bell.
