A fire service is urging people to test their smoke alarms at the same time as they change their clocks this month.

The end of British Summer Time is on October 25 and Essex County Fire and Rescue Service says turning the clocks back an hour is the perfect reminder to check your smoke alarms.

Divisional Officer Neil Fenwick said: “Smoke alarms are proven life savers.

“They give vital early warning at the first sign of fire giving you and your family plenty of time to get out and call us when you are safely out.

“It is no exaggeration to say that a smoke alarm is the most important piece of equipment in any home, it can save lives by warning or waking you when the worst happens.

“Without that warning just three breaths of toxic smoke from a house fire is enough to kill.

“Everyone soon notices when a clock stops ticking, but it’s not so easy to be sure that your smoke alarm is still in working order.

“Whether the battery is flat, has been removed for a child’s toy or the connection is loose, everyone should take the time to test their smoke alarm.

“You’re four times more likely to die in a fire without a working smoke alarm.

“Testing them takes just a second but could buy you and your family the valuable time you need to get safely out if the worst happens.

“We’re all gain an hour's sleep so when you wake up refreshed take a few minutes to test your smoke alarm as you go around your home changing the clocks.

“Taking an extra moment to push the button could save your life.”