FREE smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms will be available to private landlords in Dorset as part of a national Government campaign.

The Dorset Fire and Rescue Service (DFRS) is urging private landlords to apply for the free alarms so they are compliant with new legislation which comes into force this autumn.

The new regulations, coming into effect on October 1, will make it compulsory for landlords to fit a smoke alarm on every floor of their property, as well as a carbon monoxide alarm in every room containing a solid fuel burning appliance such as a coal fire or wood burning stove.

Any landlords failing to comply with the new laws will face a fine of up to £5,000.

Marie-Clare Gale, DFRS community safety task team manager, said: “Many landlords have already fitted smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in their properties.

“However, we urge those who may still fall short of the new regulations to take advantage of the free smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors we have available.

"Simply collect the detectors from any of the six fire stations listed on one of the dates and times specified – but these will be distributed on a first come, first served basis.

"Tenants can also play a part in taking responsibility for their own safety by reminding their landlords about the new legislation if there are no smoke or carbon monoxide alarms in their home."

Once fitted tenants are encouraged to test the detectors weekly to ensure they are working. The fire service reminds people to test alarms each week on their Facebook and Twitter accounts under the Test it Tuesday campaign.

Although tenants will be responsible for the ongoing regular testing and maintenance of the alarms, landlords will be required to check that the alarms are working at the start of every new tenancy.

A limited stock of free smoke detectors will be available to private landlords in Dorset as part of the national campaign by the Government to increase safety in rented properties.

Dorset Fire and Rescue Service (DFRS) will be making these alarms available to landlords from six fire stations across the county.

Staff from the fire service will also be on hand to provide advice to landlords on the correct installation of the alarms.

The alarms are free and available for collection in Bridport from 9am to noon on August 4, September 1 and October 6.

Weymouth Community Safety Centre will be open to collect alarms from Monday to Friday for the next three months.

Alarms can also be collected from Dorchester Fire Station on August 5 and 26 and September 14 and 22.

Free home safety checks are available to everyone in Dorset. Call 0800 038 2323 to request one or register for one by visiting dorsetfire.gov.uk.

CONTACT ME:

t: 01305 830986

e: tara.cox@dorsetecho.co.uk

twitter: @DorsetEchoTara