Free fire safety checks during Dementia Awareness Week

FIRE SERVICE staff are offering home safety checks to those with memory issues during Dementia Awareness Week.

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue backs the national campaign, which raises awareness of dementia and other illnesses that may cause memory loss.

Staff are attending events throughout the week (May 15-19), like dementia cafes and coffee mornings, meeting older people and offering advice.

Many are being trained as Dementia Friends, with an improved understanding of what it’s like to live with dementia.

Area manager Steve Helps said: “People with memory loss issues can be more at risk of having a fire due to for example, forgetting that they have left a pan on the stove.

“They may then become confused by the smoke alarm sounding and make the wrong decision about what to do, therefore putting themselves in danger.”

Home safety checks can be booked by calling 0114 253 2314 — callers should state that they have a memory issue or that they care for someone who does.

The checks will also be available after the end of Dementia Awareness Week.

The fire service also offers free smoke alarm test reminders by email, text message or tweet. To sign up, visit www.pressthebutton.co.uk.