A WARNING has been issued by Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service urging people to check their smoke alarms following the death of a woman in Swindon.

On May 13 a woman died in Meadowcroft, Swindon after fire broke out in her static caravan home.

Although what caused the fire remains under investigation, firefighters do know that there was no working smoke alarm in the property.

Smoke is responsible for more than half of all deaths where fires have started accidentally in the home.

Home safety manager Neil Chamberlain said: “Smoke alarms are inexpensive and can be bought in DIY stores and at many supermarkets.

“While it will be for the coroner to determine whether the lack of a working smoke alarm was a direct factor in yesterday’s tragic loss of life, it has been proven time and time again that working smoke alarms greatly increase your chances of survival when fire breaks out in your home.”

For home fire safety advice visit wiltsfire.gov.uk/safetyinthehome or call 0800 389 7849 for a free home safety visit from firefighters.