A SENIOR fire officer has stressed the importance of having indoor smoke alarms fitted on every floor after a homeowner's delayed response to a fire in Penrhyn Bay last Thursday.

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service (NWFRS) sent two crews from Llandudno and Colwyn Bay the property on Penrhyn Madoc at 12.03pm to tackle the fire affecting an airing cupboard.

The cause of the fire is understood to be electrical.

Kevin Jones, NWFRS community safety manager for Conwy, said the homeowner did not have a fire alarm on the floor which the fire started, which could have had dire consequences. He said: “The occupant only had one working smoke alarm on the ground floor. As the fire occurred in the upstairs of the property, this delayed the activation of the alarm which then alerted the occupant.

“Thankfully the occupant was unhurt, but this incident highlights how important it is to have working smoke alarms on every floor in your home.

“As well as working smoke alarms, ensure you have clear escape routes to enable you and your family to exit your home as quickly as possible in the event of fire."

Mr Jones said there is also a number of steps homeowners can take to help prevent electrical fires happening.

"Electrical fires can strike anytime, anywhere – but there are some simple steps you can take to help prevent an electrical fire in your home.

"They include not overloading plug sockets, regularly checking for worn or frayed wires, unplugging relevant appliances when not in use, keeping appliances in good working order, and dust and lint filters clean."

For more information on electrical safety visit the NWFRS website.