FIREFIGHTERS in Felixstowe today launched a fresh drive to persuade families to have smoke alarms as part of their bid to have one fitted in every home in the town and surrounding villages.

FIREFIGHTERS in Felixstowe today launched a fresh drive to persuade families to have smoke alarms as part of their bid to have one fitted in every home in the town and surrounding villages.

Last year a month-long campaign offering the fitting of free smoke alarms and a home risk assessment resulted in visits to 140 properties in the area.

“A fire strikes when you least expect it, often during the night when the household is asleep and spreads very rapidly. If you are asleep when a fire starts and you don't have a smoke alarm your chances of survival are zero,” said Jaime Cryer, of Felixstowe's fire crews.

“Even though the campaign was successful last year, evidence shows that there are residents of the Felixstowe and the surrounding area still without at least one working smoke alarm.”

Officers at Felixstowe Community Fire Station, High Road West, are aiming for 100 per cent domestic ownership in the town and surrounding parishes.

Anyone who does not have a smoke alarm should call 01394 625773 and officers will visit to supply and fit a free smoke alarm.

“Fitting takes under five minutes and could save lives. Also on offer is a home risk assessment in partnership with Suffolk Trading Standards covering all aspects of fire safety in the home,” said Mr Cryer.