FIREFIGHTERS are reminding people to check the batteries in their smoke alarms when they change their clocks back for winter.

British Summer Time ends on Sunday, October 26 with the clocks being put back one hour.

Avon Fire and Rescue Service (AF&RS) are reminding people that the changing of clocks can provide households with a timely reminder to fit smoke alarms or check the batteries in their existing alarms.

More than 200 people died in fires in the home last year, and over 70 per cent of those were not alerted to the fire by a smoke alarm.

Firefighters are reminding people that it is essential to test their smoke alarms regularly.

AF&RS station manager for community safety, Steve Imrie, said: “Statistics show you are four times more likely to die in a house fire if you don’t have a working smoke alarm.

“We would encourage everyone to check their smoke alarms regularly as part of their weekly cleaning routine. It’s one of the jobs that often gets forgotten, but it just takes a minute and it could save your life.

“While you are going around the house changing clocks, please just take a minute to test your smoke alarms at the same time.”

Avon Fire & Rescue Service carries out Home Fire Safety Visits where firefighters visit homes to discuss fire safety measures and fit smoke alarms for free where required.

A hard-hitting film has also been made to help promote the message further. It can be found at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ir2bekewg-8&list=PL16540F1E4C131181.