LANDLORDS across Cheshire are being urged to get ready for new life-saving fire regulations designed to save dozens of lives a year.

New laws expected to come into effect in from October 2015 will make it compulsory for all landlords to fit smoke alarms in rented homes.

Smoke alarms will be a requirement for every floor of the property, as well as carbon monoxide alarms in properties which burn solid fuels.

Landlords must check the alarms are working at the start of every new tenancy or they risk a fine of up to £5,000.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service have been campaigning for the past two years to introduce the laws, providing the Government with vital evidence and research.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Mark Cashin said: “

“As Cheshire spearheaded the campaign to get these life-saving regulations installed, we are keen to work with local landlords to improve the safety of tenants across our area.”

 “While deaths and injuries from fires have reduced considerably in recent years, the majority of victims continue to be those who are most vulnerable, often living in private rented accommodation."

To help landlords the Government has provided Cheshire Fire with a number of free smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to give out to relevant landlords.

“We are delighted that the Government has worked with us to bring in these new laws which will improve the safety of families and stop dozens of people from losing their lives to fire each year. We also welcome their £3 million in funding which will ensure nearly 500,000 smoke and carbon monoxide alarms will be installed in the coming months.”

“We would urge those landlords who need to take action to comply with the new regulations to contact us and we will arrange to come out and fit the alarms as part of a home safety assessment visit.”

Landlords interesting in registering should visit www.cheshirefire.gov.uk – and complete the online application form.