Self builders urged 'not to ignore fire risks'

Two in five Brits fail to regularly check for fire hazards in the home, according to new research from Halifax Home Insurance

Self builders have the ideal opportunity to develop a home from blueprint level, allowing them to implement vital safety measures and emergency exit routes to ensure their own safety, something that the home insurer claims is vital.

Halifax is urging all homeowners to ensure smoke detectors are installed, regularly check for fire hazards and plan emergency exit routes.

Martyn Foulds, senior claims manager at Halifax Home Insurance, says: "The emotional impact of a fire in the home can be devastating.

To avoid losing items that cannot be replaced, Mr Foulds advises homeowners to regularly assess their home or even call in an expert for advice.

According to the Fire Service, you are twice as likely to die in a fire if you do not have a smoke alarm that works.