NSC urges home owners to install smoke alarms

Fire fighters north and south have joined forces in a drive to get more people to install smoke alarms in their homes.

The campaign is part of a new initiative for Fire Safety Week aimed at preventing the number of deaths from smoke inhalation. Last year, 76 people died in house fires in Ireland and the National Safety Council (NSC) said that many of these deaths could have been prevented.

NSC spokesperson, Brian Farrell, said that a smoke alarm is the first line of defence in a house fire.

"International research shows a working smoke alarm reduces the risk of death in a fire by nearly 50%. It's just those precious seconds and minutes to get out before smoke and fumes can build up to life threatening levels.

"So, this fire safety week, the NSC is urging the public to set some time aside to install a smoke alarm if you haven't got one. Check your batteries if you have," he said.