A FIRE chief today warned people against forking out hundreds of pounds for fire safety equipment for their homes.

The warning came after it was revealed that pensioner Mary Dixon, 87 paid £400 to a Merseyside company for two smoke alarms to be fitted in her house.

She also bought a fire extinguisher and fire blanket which fire experts said should not be placed in old peoples' homes as they encourage people to tackle fires rather than escape to safety.

A second Burnley woman, Sheila Moore, 56, of Clive Street, also paid the same company a similar fee for the same equipment.

Both women said they felt cheated and backed calls for others to be on their guard.

The rip-off came to light after fire crews were called to Mrs Dixon's home in March Street in the early hours of yesterday to a faulty smoke alarm.

Fire crews were horrified to discover how much Mrs Dixon had paid for the equipment which was installed last year.

Sub Officer Neil Mark said: "People should be very cautious about employing companies to install fire safety equipment and they should check that what they are paying is reasonable.

"Mrs Dixon paid out a lot of money and we would advise against the fire blanket and extinguisher for older people. If a fire breaks out in a house, people should be making for safety rather than trying to tackle the fire themselves.

Trading Standards have been informed and are investigating.