Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service issues warning over home fire safety visit scam

Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service (DFRS) is urging people to remain vigilant following reports of scam emails circulating in parts of the UK relating to home fire safety visits.

The scam, which has been reported in areas including Hertfordshire and Greater Manchester, claims that individuals will receive a home fire safety visit to check whether smoke alarms are fitted and working within their property. The email states that households will be charged £500 if they do not have a working smoke alarm fitted.

DFRS has moved to reassure people that its official home fire safety visits (Safe and Well visits) are always completely free of charge for those that are eligible, and any smoke alarms fitted during these visits are also provided at no cost.

Deputy Chief Fire Officer Clive Stanbrook said: “We want to make it clear that we will never charge for any aspect of a home fire safety visit, including the installation of smoke alarms. Any communication suggesting otherwise is a scam.

“We are urging everyone not to click on links or share personal information in suspicious messages, and to please help protect others by sharing this information with friends, family and neighbours, particularly those who are older or more vulnerable.

“As a reminder, all Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service staff will be in uniform and carry identification when attending properties so our communities can feel confident they are dealing with legitimate representatives of the Service.”

DFRS is encouraging everyone to:

• Stay alert to unsolicited emails or messages
• Avoid clicking links or providing personal details in suspicious communications
• Talk to friends, family and neighbours, particularly older or more vulnerable people, to raise awareness and help protect them from scams

Anyone who receives a suspected scam email is advised to report it to the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133.

Genuine home fire safety visits can be requested directly through official DFRS channels.

For personalised home fire safety advice and to check whether you are eligible for a home fire safety visit (Safe and Well), visit: Safe and Well visits :: Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service