The clocks go forward at 01:00am on Sunday 26th March 2017 – as British Summer Time officially starts.
When you change your clocks, please check your smoke alarms too.
Smoke alarms have been responsible for detecting many of the 60,000 house fires that Cheshire Fire & Rescue are called out to each year. Many of the deaths that occur each year could be avoided by looking after smoke alarms. Recently there has been a 30% increase in cases where a smoke alarm didn't work because the battery was disconnected, missing or needed replacing.
Smoke alarms are cheap, at less than £5, and available in DIY stores and at many supermarkets. Always make sure that they meet the British Standard 5446 Part 1, have a 'KITEMARK' and that they are fitted in accordance with the instructions provided.
If you are over 65 years of age and you live in Cheshire, you can arrange for a Firefighter or a Community Safety Advocate to visit your home for a free home safety visit. During the visit advice will be given on how to make your home safer, what to do in the event of a fire and what to do if you are trapped by a fire. Free smoke alarms will also be fitted (if needed) with an explanation on how to maintain them correctly.
Click on this link to Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, for more details.