When the clocks go forward this weekend make sure you only lose an hour and not your life – by checking your smoke alarms at the same time.

Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) is encouraging residents to ensure their families are safe and all the alarms in the house are working as British Summer Time starts this Sunday (30th March).

A total of 211 people across the country died in fires in the home last year, and more than 70 per cent of these weren’t alerted to the fire by a smoke alarm, so it’s vital to test them regularly.

A working smoke alarm can buy families the valuable time they need to get out, stay out and call 999.

Cllr Will Windsor-Clive, cabinet member for fire, planning and infrastructure, said: “There’s no excuse not to have your smoke alarm tested regularly, and this is the perfect opportunity for people to make sure their family is safe.”

Smoke alarms are inexpensive – less than £10 from DIY stores and many supermarkets.

GFRS Community Safety Advisers identify fire risks within the homes of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

They can fit smoke alarms free of charge, advise on hazards and how best to remove them and put householders in touch with other agencies that can provide systems such as telecare (equipment that allows people to call for help and assistance).

If you know of a vulnerable person who doesn’t have a working smoke alarm, GFRS has a supply of alarms that can be supplied and fitted for free just by ringing 0800 180 41 40.