Fire Service Urges Residents to Book Free Home Safety Check

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to book a free home fire safety check, calling on people aged 65 and over, or those who care for someone in this age group, to take up its offer of a free home fire safety check to help reduce the risk of accidental fires.

So far in 2025, 67% of accidental domestic fire-related deaths in South Wales have involved people over the age of 65.

Richie Smart, Head of Community Safety and Partnerships, said: "The risk of fire increases with age but much of it is preventable. Our free safety checks are a simple step that can save lives, especially for those living alone or managing health conditions that make emergencies harder to handle."

In 2024, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service carried out over 15,000 home fire safety checks and installed at least 23,000 alarms.

The 30-minute visit includes an assessment of fire risks in the home, personalised advice, and the installation of smoke alarms or specialist equipment where needed.

Common risks include hoarding, mobility issues, missing or faulty smoke alarms, and unsafe use of heaters, electric blankets, or cigarettes indoors.

The service can also provide smoke alarms with light or vibration alerts for those who are deaf or hard of hearing

Bookings can be made by calling 0800 169 1234, through the South Wales Fire and Rescue Service website, or by contacting the nearest fire station.