Fire service warning as Crediton High Street closes
Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service are encouraging Crediton residents to double check all their smoke alarms are working and they have an escape plan in place.
This advice is triggered by the fact that South West Water will be renovating sewers in the town to improve the service to residents. Work starts on Monday 25 January for approximately four weeks.
Crediton High Street will be closed to through traffic from the Duke of York public house at the west end of the High Street to North Street at the east end of the High Street. Pedestrian access will be maintained to the shops. Diversions will be put in place.
Jon Worsley, Local Risk Manager for Crediton from Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service said: “The road closure in the high street provides a great opportunity to make sure local residents are staying safe. We do not see any issues with delays in response to an incident as South West Water will be ensuring that all emergency vehicles still can travel through the High Street.
“Check you have at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home, preferably in hallways and landings. Place smoke detectors near to sleeping areas and in rooms where there are electrical appliances will give you the extra warning you need.
“It’s also important to remember that smoke alarms don’t last forever. The power might work, but the detection mechanism deteriorates with time. So whether they are battery operated or wired to the mains, to work at their best they should be replaced every ten years.
Every second counts when escaping a fire and knowing the escape plan in an emergency could make all the difference.
The Fire Service are also urging carers and people who keep a close eye on less able relatives to check that these homes have enough smoke alarms in the right places too.
Winter driving
As the weather becomes more extreme all motorists are exposed to harsher driving conditions. Extra care is needed when driving in snow and icy conditions. The following advice will enable you and your family to be prepared.
Remember to prepare your vehicle for winter driving before you set off:
- Check anti-freeze levels,
- Top up your screen wash ensuring it is a higher concentrate or it will freeze,
- Check tyre pressures,
- Keep your lights and windows clean.
For further information on the work being carried out visit South West Water.
Make the call to request free Home Safety advice call free on: now 0800 05 02 999. For any other fire safety advice, contact the Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue helpline on: 01392 872288.
