Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is supporting a government campaign to get more people to test their smoke alarms following worrying survey results from Worcestershire.

The Pull Your Finger Out' and check your smoke alarm campaign was launched last week after a survey from the Fire Kills campaign and TNS revealed Worcestershire homes are at risk from fire.

Out of 93 per cent of households polled across both Herefordshie and Worcestershire, 78 per cent were found not to test their alarm often enough.

Chris Blake, group manager for community saftey at the service, said:"Despite the fact a high number of people across both counties own a smoke alarm, a disturbing number do not maintain their alarms on a weekly basis."

The latest statistics from Communitites and Local Government show on average there are 525 accidental house fires in both counties each year, injuring 77 people and killing two.

Mr Blake added: "The message is simple - smoke alarms save lives, but only if they work. We're urging all Worcestershire residents to pull their fingers out and test their smoke alarms once a week every week. This simple action could save the lives of their loved ones."

Apathy was the main reason people gave for not testing their smoke alarms, with 47 per cent attributing forgetfulness, being too busy or simply saying they can't be bothered'.

The service has issued five essential fire safety tips to help protect homes from fire:

- Fit a smoke alarm.

- Test it weekly.

- Plan your escape route.

- Stay safe in the kitchen.

- Make your home a safer place.

A new wave of TV advertising will accompany the campaign and will run from now until March 9.