CHESHIRE'S chief fire officer Steve McGuirk has warned Warrington residents to check their smoke alarms after incidents involving a faulty smoke alarm have gone up by 30 per cent.

He said: "With Spring upon us and the start of pleasant lighter nights, what better time than now to check that small item in your home, which could save you or your family's lives.

"Smoke alarms have been responsible for detecting many of the 60,000 house fires the brigade are called to each year, but many hundreds of deaths a year could be avoided if you look after your smoke alarm."

Smoke alarms often cost less than £5 and should always meet the BS5446 Part 1, have a Kitemark and should be fitted in accordance with the instructions provided.