HOUSEHOLDERS are being urged to test their home smoke alarms as part of a national campaign.

Launched this week and running until April 6, it aims to highlight how working smoke alarms can save a life in the event of a fire in the home.

According to the fire service while the majority of homes across Merseyside now have an alarm fitted, many people are not aware that the average alarm has a lifespan of just ten years and then needs replacing.

Mark Thomas, Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service Group Manager for Prevention said: "We know that smoke alarms save lives.

"However a smoke alarm that isn't working or cannot be heard properly offers very little extra protection in the home.

"Analysis suggests that you are at least eight times more likely to die in a fire in the home if you do not have any working smoke alarms.

"We would urge all householders to check their smoke alarms at least once a month and make sure they are fitted on every floor of the home." 

To request a free Home Fire Safety Check visit, call 0800 731 5958.