BOLTON'S housing chiefs have pledged to install smoke alarms in all the borough's 20,000 council homes.

By the end of this month, 4,000 will have been fitted in sheltered accommodation for the elderly.

And over the next three years, they will be installed in other council homes in a £200,000 programme.

Cllr Mrs Betty McCracken, chairman of the council's housing client and general sub committee, said: We are pleased with the progress being made and believe this to be a good investment.

"Just one life saved makes it all worthwhile.

"We have initiated the programme with the most vulnerable people first.

"But we feel it is important that every home should be covered.

"We hope it will allow everyone to sleep a little better at night knowing they are protected by the alarms.

"On-going check-ups and battery changes will be provided when homes receive their annual heating system service."

Tenants are being given advice on testing the alarms and are encouraged to report faults.

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