LANCASTER'S first citizen is fireproof - or at least well on the way to being safe in his home...

Cllr John Gilbert and his wife Pauline had their home checked by fire officers from Lancaster fire station's Red Watch on Wednesday as the county fire service launched a new safety drive.

A spokesman says 'Home Fire Safety Checks' are part of an initiative to make Lancashire a safer place to live. They are now available to all householders - with fire fighters able to fit free smoke alarms where necessary and give advice on subjects including life saving in the event of fire and how to make a fire escape plan.

It is stressed that all home safety checks are carried out by fire officers who will show identification on arrival - and they are also by appointment only.

To arrange a home safety check call 01525-60193 (Lancaster) or 01524-411590 (Morecambe).