PEOPLE are being urged to install smoke detectors in their homes by fire chiefs in County Durham after two deaths in one month.

The two fatalities in April, just one month into the financial year, is the same as the total of deaths in the whole of last year, which could have been avoided if smoke alarms had been fitted.

The announcement comes as fire officers announced on Thursday that a smoke alarm had saved the lives of a young family in Stanley after a chip pan fire went out of control.

Divisional officer Ian Dockerty confirmed that the family were able to get out of the house alive because they had a smoke alarm.

An inquest will be held into the death of Jean Nicholson 61, of The Square, Bishop Auckland, who died in her burning bedroom.

Although there was evidence of a smoke alarm there were no batteries.

Within days of her death Bill Ritchie, 71, died at his home in Maritime Crescent, Peterlee.

Mr Dockerty said he was concerned that there had already been two deaths, and urged people, especially those most at risk, such as elderly people living on their own, to install or check an existing smoke alarm.

He added: "Your chances of survival are dramatically increased if you have a smoke alarm in your home.

"Anyone who would like more information on the installation of a smoke alarm should contact their local fire station."