SMOKE alarm safety checks are being offered to people with hearing loss as part of Deaf Awareness Week.

A whole range of alarms have been designed specifically for the hard of hearing, with features ranging from strobe lighting and vibrating alarms to small wearable radio-linked pagers.

These specialist alarms can save lives, alerting people to a fire in their home even if they remove their hearing aid at night.

For anyone concerned that a relative, friend or neighbour may not be able to hear their smoke alarm in the event of a fire, Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service may be able to provide them with a hard of hearing smoke alarm featuring a vibrating pad and light strobe.

Station manager for community safety prevention and protection, Kevin Johnson, said: "It is vital that people who are deaf or hard of hearing ensure they have the right smoke alarm technology in their home to protect them – and that they test them regularly, to make sure they work.

"Many people with hearing loss could be at serious risk if they don’t have the right alarms in place.

"Specialist alarm systems provide valuable time to escape from a house blaze.

"Without it, lives could be lost.

"Anyone unsure about the alarms they need should contact Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service for a Home Fire Safety Check.

"We are here to help make sure your home is as fire safe as possible.

"Home Fire Safety Checks offer people the opportunity to get invaluable advice about planning escape routes, positioning alarms and ensuring that appropriate working smoke alarms are fitted in your home".

If you have concerns that a relative or friend may not be able to hear their smoke alarm in the event of a fire please call 0800 731 5958 or fill out the Home Fire Safety Check request form on www.merseyfire.gov.uk