cfoaThe Chief Fire Officers Association has praised the impact of the Fire Kills Campaign's 'Tick, Tock, Test' in encouraging people to check their smoke alarms but say it should be an year-round activity.

Statistics show that people are four times more likely to die in a fire in the home if there is no working smoke alarm, so checking them at the same time as you change the clocks is a good policy according to CFOA.

However, they suggest that as well as doing the Tick Tock Test, the clock change twice a year can act as a reminder to do some other simple activities to make sure your smoke alarm is in tip top order including:
- Open the smoke alarm case and gently vacuum the inside, using the soft-brush attachment
- Remove dust from the sensors, then change the battery if needed
- If your smoke alarm doesn’t open, vacuum through the holes.

Dave Curry, CFOA Director of Prevention, Protection and Road Safety said: “Working smoke alarms save lives. We know, and are proud of the fact, that smoke alarm ownership has risen dramatically over recent years.
"However, we are very concerned that as many as 7 out of 10 people do not test their alarms regularly. The clock change is a perfect reminder to not only test this vital life safety device for your home, but also set a habit that could save your life and the lives of your families."