14 April 2008 - Home-Helps Team Up With The Fire And Rescue Service To Prevent House Fires And Save Lives
Press release sent out by Edinburgh City Council:
Almost half the people who die from fires are over 60, often because they have mobility difficulties or are not as alert to the risks of fire around them. Unfortunately, the first contact with some of these vulnerable people is through response to emergency calls when it may be too late.
Now an innovative new partnership between the City of Edinburgh Council and Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service will see home-helps arranging for local firefighters to visit the people they care for in their own homes and carry out Home Safety Checks. The firefighter will carry out a risk assessment to identify the fire risks, and provide helpful advice and information. They will discuss night-time routines and help to create an escape plan based on individual circumstances and situations. Firefighters will also fit a free smoke alarm, if required, which is fitted with a long-life battery and is guaranteed maintenance free for ten years.
Cllr Paul Edie, Convener for Health and Social Care said:
“I am delighted that our home-helps can assist the Fire and Rescue Service in this important task. Home care staff and agency staff who visit clients in their homes are ideally placed to be the eyes and ears of the more vulnerable members of society.”
Kenneth McKim, Head of Community Safety for the Fire Service said:
“This is a fantastic opportunity for the Fire Service to reach many vulnerable people with our Home Safety Checks. “Having a working smoke alarm and a planned escape route in your home can make a big difference to the extent of the damage and devastation that fire can cause.”
If you know someone who may be at risk you can participate in this important initiative by phoning the free phone number 0800 169 0320.
Enquiries: Nicole Carter or Aileen Hope, Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service
Tel. 0131 228 2401
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