DEVON and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service have launched a life-saving campaign focused on preventing fatal fires in homes.

The ‘SAME4’ campaign is raising awareness of the four key risk factors involved in fatal fires in the home.

'SAME' stands for: S – Smoking - especially indoors or in bed; A – Age (65+) - those over 65 are at higher risk; M – Mobility - reduced mobility or mobility equipment blocking exit routes and E – Emollient creams - medical skin creams, used for conditions like for eczema, that can build up on fabrics and ignite easily.

And when two or more of these risks are present, the likelihood of someone having a serious fire increases significantly, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service say.

‘We are calling upon caregivers, family members, friends of vulnerable people, and medical professionals to help raise awareness among communities across Devon and Somerset’, a spokesperson for the fire service said.

‘If you know someone who may be at increased risk, you can support them by sharing this message or helping them access a free Home Safety Visit’, the spokesperson added.