Firefighters will visit ten local schools next week to raise awareness of fire safety in the home.

The visits are linked to the schools’ participation in the National Schools’ Fire Safety Day which takes place on Wednesday 14th October.

The day aims to raise awareness of fire safety and encourage children to develop home ‘escape plans’.

Risk Reduction Team member Sub Officer Peter Killey has co-ordinated the Island’s participation in national schools day.

He explains, "It is believed that for every single child who learns about the need to make a fire escape plan for their home, five adults also benefit.

"The initiative this particular year concentrates on making an escape plan and is all to do with the whole family knowing where to go and what to do should a fire break out.

"It also reinforces the messages of the importance of having a working smoke alarm, which is positioned correctly, and the need to test the alarm weekly.

"As well as fire safety information, we will be providing a colouring competition of Nee Naw the Fire Engine and prizes for participating classes.

"The ultimate aim is that kids take the message home to their parents and guardians of the need to plan a safe escape route."

Participating schools include Onchan, Ashley Hill, Arbory, Ballacottier, Peel Clothworkers, Andreas, Manor Park, Victoria Road(Castletown), Willaston and Port St Mary, all of whom will have firefighters visiting on Wednesday 14th October.

Fire safety officers will spend around 30 to 40 minutes with each class of Year 2 pupils, encouraging the children to visit an amusing, interactive website, which can be used on the national day, or afterwards for parents and children to explore together.

Members of the Risk Reduction Team are available to give fire safety advice to all residents on the Isle of Man.

Please call 647303 for more information or to book a home fire safety visit.

This is a free service offered by Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service.