Derry homeowners have been called on to check their smoke alarms after the devices raised alerts to fires in two houses in the city.
The call has come from SDLP Derry City Councillor Angela Dobbins after the owners and neighbours of fires in homes in the Culmore and Ballyarnett areas were alerted to the blazes by activating smoke alarms.
Cllr Dobbins said: “Serious damage was limited as a result of smoke detectors raising the alarm to the owners and neighbours, and by the quick response of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.
“I am urging all home owners to ensure their smoke alarms are functioning properly.
“A quick and easy test by pressing a button and replacing batteries could save a life.”
Cllr Dobbins concluded: “As a representative for Derry City Council on the Home Accident Prevention committee, I will also be making enquiries about having the awareness campaign around this issue highlighted again.”
