A FIRE brigade is launching a scheme to increase home safety for drug and alcohol abusers and their families in Middlesbrough.

The initiative, which is believed to be the first of its kind in the country, has been successfully piloted in Hartlepool, in partnership with other agencies.

The programme is designed to increase fire safety, home security and, in particular, reduce the potential risk of children having access to drugs, by providing secure cabinets.

Cleveland Fire Brigade's drug and alcohol advocate, Lindsay Galbraith, said: "Since the pilot was first run in Hartlepool in September, we have had more than 120 referrals - 80 per cent of which were self-referrals, where people had heard about the scheme through advertising and through our partners."

Ms Galbraith will launch the scheme by visiting various medical and advice centres throughout Middlesbrough, starting today at the Fulkrum Medical Centre, Acklam Road, between 2pm and 5pm.

She said: "We would like drug and alcohol users, and their families, to either get in contact with us directly, on 01429-874051, through their own drug treatment programme, or by coming along to the Fulkrum Medical Centre to find out more about the free scheme, get safety advice or sign up for a referral. Everyone will be treated with the strictest of confidence."

During a short home visit, brigade personnel will discuss fire safety, fit smoke alarms and other specialist equipment, such as flame-retardant bedding or throws, if needed, and make a referral for a secure medicine cabinet if appropriate.

Residents will also be offered home security checks, and advice on crime prevention.

PC Ged Kirkbright, a crime prevention officer with Middlesbrough Police, said the scheme "will help reduce danger and crime affecting vulnerable people in our society".

"This joint referral scheme will help Middlesbrough residents feel safer and more secure in their homes," he said.

"Recently I visited a woman who had been the victim of domestic violence. With our partner agencies and the fire service, we were able to improve the security of her home and the safety of her family and children."