RESIDENTS in Alcester and the surrounding district are being urged to make testing their smoke alarms each month their New Year’s resolution.

Last year, in almost 50 per cent of all cases where alarms did not give warning of a house fire, the reason was because the devices were located too far away to detect the smoke.

Another major cause was missing or flat batteries.

People who live in a multi-storey home or a larger property are advised that a single smoke alarm is not enough.

Residents should check smoke alarms are less than 10 years old and test them by pushing the button every month.

Smoke alarms should be fitted on landings, hallways and near bedrooms. Those installing the devices should be mindful of which rooms contain potentially hazardous electrical appliances.

Recently, a fire broke out in a house in Mill Lane, Oversley Green. It is believed the incident was caused by a heated hair styler being left on or possibly due to an electrical fault.

Councillor Les Caborn, Warwickshire County Council’s portfolio holder for community safety, said: “At this time of year, many people will be thinking of what they can do – big or small – to make a fresh start and improve their lives, homes and wellbeing.

"A smoke alarm can offer vital protection for you and your loved ones, but most people simply fit and forget, they don’t know if it might be coming to the end of its lifespan or not working at all."

Councillor Richard Chattaway, chair of the Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee, added: “For most of us, there is nothing more important than keeping our loved ones safe and secure.

"So if your alarm is getting past its best or your top floor is missing an alarm of its own, make your New Year’s resolution to fit new ones, test them on the first of every month and protect your loved ones in 2015."

For more information visit http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/firesafetycheck.