Firefighters urge a tidy-up

FIREFIGHTERS at Ipswich's Princes Street today issued some important fire safety messages during Suffolk Spring Clean Fortnight.

Chief fire officer Andy Fry said: "Many fires which occur in homes, industry or businesses, are because of poor house keeping. Apart from the damage to property and the environment, those fires could cost lives.

“Some simple steps can prevent risk and spring is the perfect time for a fresh look."

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service offer the following advice so safety can be improved and the risk of fire reduced.

Never empty smoking materials into bins in the house.

In the house, make sure your escape routes through external doors are not blocked

Close all doors before going to bed at night

Never burn rubbish on an open fire in the home and always have a fireguard in place

Where possible, store rubbish in secure bins

Try to keep combustible rubbish away from buildings.

Mr Fry said everyone can play their part in fire safety

He said: "We all have a part to play in helping to create a cleaner and safer environment.

“Our experience as firefighters tells us that all too often fires could have been prevented and we want to stop them starting in the first place.

“We ask you to join us in taking a fresh look at the way you treat and dispose of litter and help us to make our community a safer place."

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service carry out free home fire safety checks where they fit free smoke alarms as part of the process.

They also provide fire safety advice and help to identify fire risks within a home.

To arrange your free home fire safety check please contact the community safety team on 01473 260586.