Campaign aims to cut deaths from fires (From Warrington Guardian)

Campaign aims to cut deaths from fires

FIRE chiefs in Cheshire are backing a national TV campaign to cut house fire casualties.

The advert campaign will be launched tomorrow, Thursday, with the theme A fire doesn't have to kill you to take your life. The aim is to reduce the amount of deaths and injuries from accidental house fires by warning the public that a fire could happen to them.

Adverts will highlight the emotional and financial effects of a house fire and urge people take preventative action to prevent fires in their properties.

Some 50,000 accidental house fires are attended by fire and rescue services every year. They account for over 350 unnecessary fatalities and 11,000 avoidable injuries.

Research reports, however, indicate that 91 per cent of people do not consider it likely there will be a fire in their home.

A supporting Fire Prevention Handbook is available via the order line on 0845 087087 or www.firekills.co.uk.