Vulnerable adults who are most at risk in a fire, and their carer's, are being urged by Surrey Fire and Rescue to make their homes safer.

In the last four years, 89 per cent of fire fatalities in Surrey were vulnerable adults such as the elderly, disabled or sick.

Chris Gill, group manager at Surrey Fire and Rescue said: “Testing their loved one’s smoke alarm weekly could help give them the vital extra seconds they need to escape in a fire, while simple steps such as closing doors at night and avoiding overloaded plug sockets will help reduce the risk in their home.

“A huge variety of specialist safety equipment is also available. “Vibrating smoke alarms for the hard of hearing, easy-reach smoke alarm testers for those with limited movement and linked alarm systems are just a few options to help you feel safer.”

For more information on fire safety visit direct.gov.uk/firekills or call 0800 085 0767 to arrange a free home safety fire visit.