Vulnerable targeted in campaign to keep them safe

ALMOST 400 homes across the county have been visited as officials look to ensure the homes of vulnerable people are protected from fire.

Staffordshire County Council and Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service have teamed up to target the people aged 65 and over who are most at risk from fire-related injuries.

And they have been offered a free home fire risk, which involves firefighters or a service technician visiting people in their own home to give fire safety advice, discuss escape routes and also fit free life-saving equipment such as smoke alarms and fire guards. County Councillor Matthew Ellis, cabinet member for adults and wellbeing, said: "By looking at our database, we've been able to arrange visits and equip them with all the advice and kit they need to prevent any incidents of this nature."

The fire service's director of safer communities Bob Russell said: "Previously if we didn't know about these people we couldn't help them, whereas now we have all the details we need to get in touch."

Anyone thinks they would benefit from a fire assessment, or knows someone who would, should call 0800 0241 999.