Smoke alarms save lives – but statistics show that one may not be enough to provide you with the best chance of escaping a fire in the home.

Now the Fire Kills campaign and Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) are encouraging people to have a think about the smoke alarms in their home.

Vikki Thomas, safe and well manager at DWFRS, said: “We all must make sure that we have enough smoke alarms in our homes and that they are in the right places.

“If your whole home isn’t covered, you could be leaving it to chance and, in a fire, you might not get the early warning that you need.

“The vast majority of us now have at least one working smoke alarm in our home, but early detection and warning is vital to reduce the devastation a fire can cause. That’s why it’s so important that you have enough smoke alarms and that they are in the right places. That will give them the best chance of alerting you and your loved ones to a fire.”

She added: “You should make sure you have at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home, preferably in hallways and landings. And placing smoke detectors near to sleeping areas and in rooms where there are electrical appliances could give you the extra warning you need.

“It’s also important to remember that smoke alarms don’t last forever. The power might work, but the detection mechanism deteriorates with time. So, whether they are battery operated or wired to the mains, to work at their best they should be replaced every ten years. Don’t forget to test your smoke alarms regularly. They can only do their job if they’re in good working order.”

The brigade offers free safe and well advice to residents, and those who qualify can receive a home visit from a safe and well advisor, which can include fitting smoke alarms where appropriate. To apply call 0800 038 2323 or visit dwfire.org.uk