PEOPLE living in Basildon are being asked to check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours - especially those living alone - to make sure they have working smoke alarms in a bid to help reduce the risk of deadly house fires.

The appeal comes after alarming figures show that in Essex, more than 80% of people who die in house fires live alone—and most don't have working smoke alarms.

Data also shows that Basildon residents reported one of the lowest numbers of working smoke alarms at home in a recent survey.

Claire Monk, Live Safe Manager at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Each year, we visit thousands of homes in Essex to help people stay safe - and we need your help in Basildon to make sure we're reaching those who need us the most.

"We're especially keen to support elderly residents who live alone or anyone who may struggle to escape quickly in an emergency.

"Sadly, the statistics speak for themselves. People who live alone are more likely to be victims of fire and less likely to have working smoke alarms at home."

How you can help in Basildon

• Check in on neighbours who live alone, especially if they are older or vulnerable
• Offer to test their smoke alarms, and let Essex County Fire and Rescue fit new ones for free if needed
• Keep an eye out for potential fire hazards such as portable heaters near furniture or unattended candles
• If you have any concerns about a neighbour's safety, refer them for a free home safety visit through ECFRS' website

"If you hear a smoke alarm or see smoke coming from a neighbour's house," Claire added, "don't hesitate to call 999. Your quick thinking could save a life."

Free home safety visits available in Basildon

• Available to all Essex residents - especially those who are older or live alone
• Carried out by trained officers or firefighters
• Includes the fitting of free smoke alarms and tailored fire safety advice

Live in Basildon and want to help someone stay safe?

Refer a neighbour today for a free home safety visit: Visit the ECFRS website or search 'Essex Fire Book'