FIRE chiefs have launched a new campaign urging people to check their smoke alarms are in working order.

Until October 31, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service is running a hard-hitting national campaign -- Push the Button! Not Your Luck! -- telling householders to check smoke alarm batteries every week. Although around 80 per cent of households have the alarms, many do not work because of flat or missing batteries.

In 2003/04, smoke alarms failed to work in 20 per cent of house fires in the county .

County fire officer Barry Dixon said: "Previous fire safety campaigns have been very successful in increasing the number of smoke alarms in people's homes.

"However, a smoke alarm is useless if it is not in working order. It is imperative that people check their smoke alarms regularly. And never, ever remove batteries for use in other electrical appliances."

Smoke alarm tips :

1, Fit smoke alarms on every level of your home.

2, Check the batteries once a week.

3, Replace the batteries every 12 months.

4, Replace the unit every ten years.

5, Consider installing ten-year smoke alarms or hard-wired alarms.

Do not put smoke alarms in the kitchen.