A NEW partnership between Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service and Age Concern Okehampton and Torridge is to be celebrated at an event on October 10. The two organisations are joining forces in an effort to provide fire safety information to the elderly and vulnerable living in the area. Recent studies have shown that the elderly living alone, people with disabilities or with sight and hearing loss are more at risk of having a fire at their home. This pilot initiative is to engage with the hard to reach people in the community that quite often feel isolated and alone and may not be receiving any help or support from friends, families or other agencies. Group manager Neil Blackburn said: 'We know that a large proportion of our vulnerable risk groups are remote by either geography or demography and this initiative will open up those boundaries, enabling the effective delivery of our fire safety initiatives.' The fire services are particularly looking to reach people who feel they may meet the criteria for a free home fire safety visit. They also want to encourage friends and families to think about their loved ones and make a referral on their behalf. An open morning is being held at Okehampton Fire Station on Friday, October 10 from 10am to noon to celebrate the initiative. The two groups have invited other organisations, such as the Stroke Association, Alzheimer's Association and Devon and Cornwall Police to take part. Community groups providing services to older people in Okehampton are invited to take part. From 10am there is an opportunity for volunteers and professional health care workers to receive free 30 minute training sessions on fire risks to their clients. To find out more or to book a free table at the event for your organisation, call Age Concern Okehampton and Torridge on 01837 55838.