Smoke alarms have played a vital part in almost a third of all domestic fires on the Island since January 2010.

Figures show that of 46 calls to fires in homes or flats, 17 involved a smoke alarm alerting the residents who then called the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.

However, statistics have also shown that in eight of the 46 call outs, smoke alarms in the properties did not work.

Jeff Walls, Community Safety Manager for the Fire and Rescue Service said

“The figures show just how vital smoke detectors are in helping save lives and reducing the amount of damage to properties.

“The fact that in a third of all call outs we have had to domestic properties since 1 January have come about from smoke alarms doing exactly what they are designed to do is testament to this.

“It is also very important smoke alarms are maintained and it is fortunate no one was hurt in the eight incidents where they did not work. If the owners had not spotted the fires then we would’ve been looking at far worse situations. It takes less than a couple of minutes to ensure an alarm is working”

To ensure smoke alarms remain in good working order, they should be tested every week and cleaned with a vacuum once every six months. The battery should be replaced every year in standard models, although ‘ten year’ alarms are available with the battery lasting for the life of the alarm. These alarms should be replaced with new models every ten years.

IW Fire and Rescue Service provides free home fire safety checks, which can be organised by calling (01983) 533834 or by logging on to  Thewww.iwfire.org website also contains fire safety tips for homes and businesses.