A FIRE service is launching safety packs as part of a new scheme.

Cleveland Fire Brigade has joined forces with other organisations to create the packs, which will be handed out to residents as part of the Whatever It Takes initiative.

The scheme will target a number of areas in Middlesbrough, including Gresham, Ayresome and Middlehaven.

It is designed to improve the safety and environment for residents.

As part of the scheme, fire safety checks are being carried out in homes, including removing risks such as chip pans, and replacing overloaded sockets with safer alternatives.

Firefighters are also carrying out slip, trip and fall assessments by issuing non-slip slippers and offering flame retardant bed packs.

Smoke alarms are being fitted free.

In addition to the checks, material is being developed which includes advice on healthy eating, how to stop smoking, personal and home security, energy conservation and a numeracy and literacy pack.

All aim to give useful information and encourage people to be safer, healthier and improve the local area.

Steve Johnson, Middlesbrough station manager, said: "One of the packs being developed is a healthy-eating pack, with Middlesbrough Primary Care Trust and well-being groups. We are hoping for the pack to include healthy eating and diet and recipe booklets, heart, cholesterol and exercise information, as well as an oven tray and oven gloves.

"Once a home fire safety check is carried out, firefighters will determine the needs of those in the home and will issue the necessary equipment and packs."