Fire service encourages Home Safety Visits for smokers

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to look out for loved ones who smoke, particularly those who are elderly and live alone, by referring them for a Home Safety Visit through the Online Home Safety Check.

Smoking-related fires remain one of the leading causes of fatal house fires. A Home Safety Visit provides valuable advice and potential safety measures to help prevent accidents and keep people safe in their homes.

Claire Monk, Live Safe Manager, said:

“We understand that smoking is a personal choice, and we’re not here to pressure anyone into quitting. However, small changes, like using proper ashtrays, ensuring working smoke alarms, and identifying fire risks, can make a huge difference in preventing fires and keeping people safe. If you have a loved one who smokes, particularly if they live alone, please consider referring them for a Home Safety Visit. It could save their life.”

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service offers these visits free of charge, ensuring that the most vulnerable members of the community have access to the support and resources they need to stay safe.

To refer someone for a Home Safety Visit, visit www.essex-fire.gov.uk/online.