The fire service is urging people to stay safe this winter despite the cost-of-living pressures.

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) is asking residents to take simple steps to avoid accidental fires and carbon monoxide poisoning even as they try to cut costs and energy use over the coming months.

The call comes following concerns that the rising prices will force people to turn to alternative ways of heating and lighting their homes.

Prevention team leader at HWFRS, Louise Schiffmann, said: “It’s vital that as we all cope safely with the rise in the cost of living, we shouldn’t be putting ourselves or our loved ones at risk.

“Over the coming months, we will be working to support our community, help keep people safe and reduce the risk of a devastating accidental fire.”

HWFRS is supporting the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) ‘Fire Kills’ campaign to provide advice to help reduce the fire risks in the home.

As part of the campaign, the fire service is encouraging people to complete an online home fire safety check for themselves or their loved ones.

They are also issuing top tips including to check smoke alarms are working at least once a week, install a carbon monoxide (CO) alarm, take care when lighting candles and to charge e-vehicles outdoors.

Landlords also have a responsibility to fit smoke alarms in homes and CO alarms where there is a fixed combustion heating appliance in rented accommodation.

Ms Schiffman added: “There is plenty of fire safety advice at hwfire.org.uk/safety-and-advice/ and at www.hwfire.org.uk and you can contact our Prevention Team on 0800 032 1155 to see if you might qualify for a free home fire safety visit.

“Don’t forget that extra government help is out there and you can find more information at www.gov.uk”

To complete a free online home fire safety check visit www.safelincs.co.uk/hfsc/