TEAMS from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service carried out 2,829 Home Fire Safety Visits in February as part of dedicated Days of Action focused on keeping residents safe in their homes.

The total represents a 245 per cent increase on February last year, when 820 visits were completed, as the Service stepped up its prevention work across Essex.

The programme included targeted visits to more than 200 sheltered housing schemes, where crews and prevention staff worked alongside residents to identify risks and provide practical fire safety advice.

During visits, firefighters and prevention teams tested smoke alarms, reviewed escape plans and checked for potential hazards.

They also worked with scheme managers and care providers to ensure residents could access additional support where needed.

Crews and staff from Essex County Fire and Rescue Service have been out in communities across Essex providing advice and support to help keep people safe

Dave Bond, Area Manager at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Home Fire Safety Visits are one of the most effective ways we can reduce risk in Essex.

"Increasing the number we carry out means we are taking practical steps to prevent fires and protect people in their own homes.

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"Completing 2,829 visits in February means more smoke alarms checked, more escape plans discussed and more opportunities to identify risks early.

"This work directly supports the commitments set out in our Community Risk Management Plan. Prevention sits at the heart of our approach as a Service, alongside our emergency response.

"The earlier we can identify and reduce risk, the better the outcome for individuals, families and our communities."

Mark Eaglestone, Group Manager for South West Essex, which including the Basildon district, Thurrock borough, Loughton, Epping and Waltham Abbey, said: "Engaging directly with residents in sheltered accommodation helps us highlight the small changes that can make a big difference to fire safety, such as keeping escape routes clear and using electrical items safely.

"It also allows us to support staff and residents with practical advice and reassurance, ensuring everyone feels confident about how to stay safe at home."

What happens during a Home Fire Safety Visit?

Home Fire Safety Visits are free of charge. During a visit, crews and prevention staff can:

• Check and advise on existing smoke alarms and fit free smoke alarms where needed
• Provide specialist sensory smoke alarms for residents with hearing loss
• Identify fire risks in the home and give tailored fire safety advice
• Discuss electrical hazards, kitchen safety and general household risks
• Discuss and signpost residents to additional health and wellbeing support where needed
• Provide advice on carbon monoxide safety and the safe use of gas appliances
• Provide guidance and reassurance to carers and support staff where required
• Residents, family members, carers and professionals can request a visit on behalf of someone they are concerned about.

To find out more, search "Essex home safety" online or call 0300 303 0088 or email [email protected]

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Team effort:

Partnership: Supporting residents with fire safety advice and prevention guidance

Out across Essex: Crews and staff speaking with residents and answering questions about fire safety