Smoke alarms are cheap, easy to get hold of and, used properly, they really are life savers.  If there is a fire in your home it sounds a piercing alarm to warn you.  Many people killed in house fires are asleep at the time, however a smoke alarm will wake you up and give you vital extra time to escape; they are available from as little as £5 from DIY stores, electrical shops and many supermarkets and high street retailers.

There are several models of smoke alarm to choose from, depending upon your needs and your budget.

The two main decisions are what sort of detection method and what sort of power supply; whichever model you choose, look out for the British Standard Kitemark and follow the manufacturer's instructions when fitting the smoke alarm.

Ionisation alarms are sensitive to free-burning fires with flames - for example chip pan fires.  These are the cheapest (from as little as £5) and the most widely available.

Optical alarms are more effective at detecting slow-burning fires such as overloaded electrical wiring.  They are less likely to go off accidentally or when you are cooking and are best for ground-floor hallways or for homes on one level.  Prices start from about £15 and they are available in DIY or electrical shops.

Where should I fit them?  Always put smoke alarms where you will be able to hear them throughout your home, particularly when you are asleep or doors are closed.  Ideal locations are at the top of the staircase, on stair landings and between living and sleeping areas.  DON'T fit alarms in the kitchen or bathroom, where they can be easily set off accidentally by steam or cooking.   You should fit alarms on the ceiling, as near as possible to the centre of the room, hallway or landing.  The alarm should be at least 30cm. from any wall or light.

Looking after smoke alarms.  Every year people are killed in fires at home because their smoke alarms failed to work due to flat or missing batteries; the following advice is therefore recommended:-

    Once a week: test the battery - press the test button until the alarm sounds.

    Once a year: change the battery (unless it is a ten year alarm).

    Twice a year: open the case and gently vacuum the inside to remove dust from the sensors.  If it doesn't open, vacuum through the holes.

    After 10 years: it is best to replace your alarm with a whole new unit.

YOU ARE TWICE AS LIKELY TO DIE IN A FIRE AT HOME IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A WORKING FIRE ALARM.