09 May 2008 -Deaf Awareness Week
There are over three quarters of a million people in Scotland who are deaf or hard of hearing. Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service are aiming to reach out to those who live in the area, and provide them with fire safety advice and assistance to obtain appropriate fire safety equipment.
People who are deaf or hard of hearing may not hear a typical smoke alarm. In timing with Deaf Awareness Week, the Service is joining Deaf Action in reminding people that fire prevention and safety equipment is as important to them as it is to everyone else.
Kenneth McKim, Head of Community Safety for the Fire Service said, “People who are deaf or hard of hearing are in a very high risk group. If, for example, a person is asleep and cannot hear their alarm or people shouting to help them, there would be nothing to alert them to the imminent danger.
“However if the person has an alarm linked to a vibrating pad beneath their pillow, it would wake them and alert them quickly, and ensure the best chance possible to escape or get to a safe place until Firefighters arrive.”
Mike Bridgeman, Convenor of the Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service Board said, “This is an extremely important message that needs to be passed on. We must provide a comprehensive preventative service to all sections of the community, as well as emergency response.
“If you are deaf or hard of hearing, or know someone who is, we urge you to use or pass on the contact details below, and help us ensure that everyone has the same opportunity to be safe in their home.”
Specialist equipment and advice, such as smoke alarm linked to a flashing light or vibrating pad or pager are available and could save your life.
For more information on how to access this equipment, contact enquiries@lbfire.org.uk telephone 0800 169 0320, text CHECK' to 61611 or contact Deaf Action at admin@deafaction.org, telephone 0131 556 3128, text phone 0131 557 0419, fax 0131 557 8283, videophone 82.71.100.121.
Enquiries: Nicole Carter or Aileen Hope, Lothian and Borders Fire and Rescue Service
Tel. 0131 228 2401
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