Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) is encouraging people across the county to “Keep having the time of your life” – “test your smoke alarm weekly” in a new fire safety video posted on social media.

The video was made to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the classic 1987 movie Dirty Dancing, but to deliver a serious message about carrying out a simple life-saving weekly check.

Still considered to be one of the greatest romantic films ever made, but the KFRS Dirty Dancing parody sees the late Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey replaced by watch manager Joanne Gilham and firefighter Nathan Pavey. The pair are seen strutting their stuff to the equally popular song from the movie “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life”, with their performance ending with the famous lift and Jo reaching up to test a smoke alarm. The video then reminds the audience: “Keep having the time of your life - test your smoke alarm weekly.”

Ian Thomson, Head of Community Safety at KFRS said: “This parody is a great deal of fun, but delivers a simple yet serious message about carrying out a quick check every week. This check can make such a difference to the lives of the people we care about and love the most.

“We’re not expecting people to do ‘The lift’ scene from ‘Dirty Dancing’  to test their smoke alarms, however we really want people to make it part of their weekly activity. If you have difficulty reaching for the smoke alarm then you could use a broom handle or ask a relative or neighbour to help. These life-saving devices are vital in every home.

Ian added: “We’re always looking to find new ways to creatively connect with people and encourage them to think about how they can keep their loved ones and homes safe from the deadly effects of fire. Our Dirty Dancing film is the latest in a series of similar film parodies including the recent “IT” film which urged the audience: “Don’t be a clown” and to “Test ‘IT’ weekly” and the Star Wars – The Force Awakens film – both went viral and were widely praised.

KFRS offers a range of free safety advice and services to keep you and your family safe from fire in your home, speak to one of our home safety advisors today by calling 0800 923 7000 or email