WEST YORKSHIRE'S firefighters are on a mission - to raise awareness of fire risks in the home.

It's the main theme of their efforts in National Fire Safety Week, which began today.

Richard Hagger, head of the region's community fire safety team, said: "We'll be advising on some simple checks to carry out at home to make it a safer place."

He added: "Not only is it a case of preventing fire in the first place, but it's having a clear escape route should fire break out."

Top tips include:

* Check smoke alarms once a week.

* Close all doors at night.

* Have a phone in the bedroom at night.

* Make sure cigarettes have been put out properly.

Firefighters will carry out home fire safety checks free of charge and fit smoke detectors where necessary. Ring 0800 587 4536.