FIRE statistics have revealed that just one smoke alarm may not be enough to provide you with the best chance of escaping a fire in the home. Most people are aware a smoke alarm can save lives by providing the vital few seconds needed to escape a house fire. But, despite the majority of homes (88%) having at least one working smoke alarm in their home, smoke alarms alerted householders to a fire in England in only a third of cases. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has said that the most common reason a smoke alarm failed to activate was because the fire was outside its range. For this reason, the 'Fire Kills' campaign is encouraging people to have a think about the smoke alarms in their home. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service offers five smoke alarm top tips: l Install a smoke alarm at least on every level of your home. The ideal position is on the ceiling, in the middle of a room or on a hallway or landing. l Consider fitting additional alarms in other rooms where there are electrical appliances and near sleeping areas. l Do not put alarms in or near kitchens and bathrooms where smoke or steam can set them off by accident. l Replace your smoke alarms every ten years. The service is also urging carers and people who keep a close eye on less able relatives to check that these homes have enough smoke alarms in the right places.