BEING witness to a fire in your home is frightening at the best of times - but have you considered what you would do upon waking at night to find your home on fire with you in it? What steps can you take to reduce the risk of a fire starting and spreading

BEING witness to a fire in your home is frightening at the best of times - but have you considered what you would do upon waking at night to find your home on fire with you in it?

What steps can you take to reduce the risk of a fire starting and spreading in your home while you sleep, and help you escape when you need to most?

The following actions should form your bedtime routine every night:

• Make sure no cigarettes, pipes or candles are still burning

• Before emptying ashtrays make sure the contents are cold

• Never smoke in bed

• Switch off portable heaters

• Switch off and unplug all electrical appliances not designed to stay on

• Close the doors to all rooms

• Make sure the key to your escape route exit door is easily accessible.

Smoke alarms save lives

If you do nothing else to protect your home and your family from fire, at least make sure you install a smoke alarm.

A correctly-installed and working smoke alarm can give early warning, allowing you those valuable extra minutes to make your escape.

• Ensure they conform to British Standard 5446: Part 1 and carry the kite mark

• Test them weekly

• Know the life of their batteries and mark your calendar to remind you when to replace them

For further information contact 01480 444666 or visit www.cambsfire.gov.uk