CLYDEBANK’S MSP has called on residents to make sure their homes are safe as alarms as new rules come into force too boost their safety.

From February 1, smoke alarms must be interlinked as one of a series of changes brought in after the deadly Grenfell Tower fire nearly five years ago.

But opposition politicians have expressed fears in recent weeks that residents are not fully aware of the rules and they could struggle to pay for them.

It is the responsibility of homeowners to make sure they meet the alarm standards and failure to do so could invalidate their home insurance.

Concerns have been raised about the cost of alarms. West Dunbartonshire Council (WDC) said the estimated average cost for a three-bedroom home is about £220, which must be met by the owner or private landlords.

But Jackie Baillie MSP for neighbouring Dumbarton, said constituents have been quoted up to £400 for the devices and were being "held to ransom". They have also found problems getting installations done, on top of a shortage of equipment.

The fire alarms rule was already delayed by a year because of the pandemic. But in December, councillors agreed a motion to ask for an 18-month delay to give more time for residents to become aware and get homes up to scratch.

Ahead of the housing and communities committee on February 2, statistics from Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) show accidental dwelling fire casualties have doubled from two to four in the past year.

Accidental dwelling fires in the latest figures are also up, though deliberate fire setting is down 43 per cent across West Dunbartonshire.

Marie McNair MSP, who represents Clydebank, said: “Public awareness is high and it’s rising, but I’m keen to make sure everyone knows about the changes that come into effect from February 1.

“Most of us will never experience a fire in our homes, but it can have a devastating impact if it does happen. That is why the Scottish Government has made fire safety a key priority.

“People across Dunbartonshire, and indeed the whole of Scotland, will benefit from these new fire regulations that bring us into line with many EU countries such as the Republic of Ireland and Germany.

“The regulations come into force from the start of February, so I am urging locals to look at having new alarms installed if you have not already done so.

"As you look for new fire alarms, please be aware of potential scams and only use reputable tradespeople, avoid cold callers or any company claiming to be endorsed by the Scottish Government.

“The alarms can be easily bought and installed by homeowners. However, if you have difficulty installing the alarms because you are over 60 or disabled, then help is out there. Lomond and Clyde Care and Repair can provide advice and can assist eligible older and disabled homeowners with installing the alarms.”

Council leader Jonathan McColl said this month: “Protecting lives is at the heart of these new regulations.

“So while I appreciate that installing interlinked alarms imposes an additional financial burden for many households, it’s important to remember their purpose – to keep you and your loved ones safe – is priceless.

“Indeed, the potential cost of not making your home compliant would far outweigh this one-off investment if your home insurance becomes invalid.

“Therefore, I would urge every homeowner in West Dunbartonshire to buy and install these alarms before February 1 to protect themselves, their family and their home.”

A total of £500,000 has been provided by the government through Care and Repair Scotland to help disabled and elderly residents install alarms as well as £1million to SFRS to install them in owner-occupied high-risk homes.