Tonight's meeting of the Staple Tye Ward Advisory Group has a guest speaker, Len Cleary from the Essex Fire & Rescue Service. There's a lively discussion about various fire hazards in the home, and how the Fire Service can help with prevention, not just putting out a fire after it's happened. We talk about the risks from overloaded electric points, dimmer switches, candles and tea-lights, and ashtrays. We're also reminded that in the event of fire, the important thing is to get out and stay out; even with a working smoke alarm, people have died because they stayed to try to douse the flames with cups of water.

The Fire Service will carry out free home safety visits and, where necessary, fit free smoke alarms. Priority is given to particularly vulnerable residents such as older people and lone parents.

• Do you have at least one smoke alarm per level?
• Are they both working?
• Do you have an escape plan?
• Do you test your alarms weekly?

If your answer to any of these questions is No, contact the First Safety Officer on 420841, or visit the Essex County Fire & Rescue Service web site.

A free Fire Prevention Handbook is also available from 08456 087 087, or you can view it online.

Have a very safe 2006.