This week, I received the following email and I am afraid to admit that I just do not know the answer. If you are able to help, please email or telephone me (Alan) on 01989 763217 and I will pass the information on . . .

'I live in Ross and have friends coming to stay in September from United States. Our friend has multiple sclerosis and I am trying to find out if there is anyone locally who could supply (hire) a wheelchair and motorized disabled scooter for one week. Would you have such information?'

Name and address supplied.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service is offering free smoke alarms and fire safety advice to all homes throughout the Caldicot area. All householders can register for a Home Fire Safety Check by telephoning the freephone number 0800 3281830 or by calling into their local Fire Station.

Local fire crews will then make an appointment to visit their home and carry out a fire safety check, where many people will find themselves eligible for smoke alarms to be supplied and fitted free of charge. Fire-fighters will look for potential danger areas in the home, offer guidance on how to reduce the risk of fire, as well as encouraging occupants to think about an escape plan in the event of a fire.

Station Officer at Caldicot Fire Station, Alison Kibblewhite, said: 'The death rate in domestic fires where there is no working smoke alarm is twice as high than in homes fitted with a working smoke alarm. Fitting and maintaining a smoke alarm is the simplest and most effective way of saving lives.

Fires in homes with a working smoke alarm are likely to be discovered more quickly than those without an alarm and give the occupants more time to escape from their property.

We are urging everyone in the area to take advantage of the Home Fire Safety Check initiative, and book an appointment using the freephone number or by calling into Caldicot Fire Station today.'

Even if people already have a working smoke alarm at home, they will also benefit from the sound, professional fire safety advice given by the fire-fighters, which could reduce the risk of fire at their property.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service recommends fitting smoke alarms on every level of your home and that they should be tested weekly, cleaned out with the vacuum cleaner nozzle every six months, and have their batteries replaced annually.