MP Supports “Fire Kills” Campaign

Following the launch of a new government campaign this month, Stockport MP Ann Coffey is going out with Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service to help deliver the message that “Fire Kills”.  Ann Coffey will visit new mum Kate French, who is taking advantage of the Fire Service’s free fire safety check at her home in Edgeley.

The Fire Kills campaign aims to prevent house fires by encouraging residents to test their smoke alarms. According to a survey carried out in November 2007* 95% of North West households polled have a smoke alarm.  However, the bad news is that 75% do not test their alarm often enough, and this can put their homes and safety of their families at risk.

During 2007 there were 234 accidental fires at homes in Stockport.  94 people were injured and 3 people died.**

Ann Coffey said:  “The Fire Service are the experts, and they will come and do a free check of any fire risks in your home. They tell me that smoke alarms do a great job and save lives – but only if they work!  It only takes a minute to check your alarm and make sure it’s working. In case of a fire, this could buy you time to get out of the house and dial 999.”

To find out more about getting a free fire safety check at home, call 0800 555 815 or visit www.manchesterfire.gov.uk