By Freya Hodgson
A new campaign has been launched for Carers' Week.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service's ‘Do you know a CHARLIE?’ campaign focuses on asking carers to help identify those who are most at risk of a fire.
The service offers free safe and well checks to support those who are most vulnerable.
Vikki Thomas, safe and well manager said: “We know from our data that at least one of the CHARLIE factors comes into play in almost all of our fatal fires.
“We have specialist safe and well Advisors who can visit the home, provide advice and wherever possible, introduce safeguards to reduce the risk of fire.”
To be a CHARLIE, a person needs to meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Care and support needs
- Hoarding and/or mental health issues
- Alcohol and medication use
- Reduced mobility
- Lives alone
- Inappropriate smoking
- Elderly - 65+
The safe and well team is also providing referral prompt cards to domiciliary care providers, GP practices, reablement teams and other professionals who will potentially visiting people at home.
For further advice to carers, including information on how to request a Safe & Well visit, can be found at www.dwfire.org.uk/advice-for-carers
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