THE number of fire deaths in Lancashire has been cut thanks to better fire safety awareness, it was announced today.

The lowest levels in fire deaths and injuries in Lancashire were recorded during the past 12 months.

From April 2005 to the end of March 2006, eight fire deaths occurred, a reduction of 27per cent over the previous year's total of 11.

Limiting the number of fire injuries to 146 was a reduction of 45per cent over the previous year's total of 265.

And with 36,125 fire home safety visits accomplished and 35,832 smoke alarms fitted in the last calendar year, Lancashire's total is double that for London and Greater Manchester put together.

The Chief Fire Officer for Lancashire, Peter Holland, said the service's commitment to fire prevention was the reason for the dramatic improvement.

He said: "Clearly, while absolutely no deaths or fire injuries is our goal, there is nevertheless good reason to be delighted by the impact our fire prevention work is having on addressing the trauma and tragedy associated with accidental fires.

"On home fire safety check visits, at the invitation of the householder, our firefighters identify potential fire hazards such as overloaded electrical sockets and clothes left to dry too near to heaters.

"They give advice on how to prevent fire and what to do if the worst happens and there is a fire.

"Helping the householder devise a fire escape plan and learning how to survive if trapped by fire can become lifesaving advice."

l Free home fire safety check visits may be booked on 0800 1691125.