FIRE chiefs are calling on people to take simple steps to prevent death or serious injury to children.

The County Durham and Darlington brigade is backing Child Safety Week, which starts today.

The aim is to reduce the annual toll of 50 deaths of children aged under 14 in house fires across the country. A further 2,000 are injured.

Divisional Officer David Turnbull said fires claimed the lives of two children in the county in 2001, and seven adults last year.

"A lot of accidental domestic fires could easily be prevented," he said.

"Leaving a chip pan unattended on the cooker, forgetting to replace a dead smoke alarm battery or leaving matches and lighters in reach of children can all cause fire hazards.

"If families took a few minutes to think about fire safety steps and help educate their children about fire safety, many needless fires could be prevented.''

The brigade's advice includes fitting alarms on each level of the home, ensuring batteries are working, making a plan for the family to follow in the event of a fire, and ensuring cigarettes are extinguished.

The brigade is also concerned about candles falling or being knocked over and left unattended when children are about.

Mr Turnbull said children must be told not to hide if fire breaks out.

"Fire and smoke can be extremely frightening and a natural reaction is for kids to take cover under beds and in wardrobes," he said.

"Always remember, if fire does start, get out, stay out and get the fire brigade out by dialling 999.''

People can get advice from district community fire safety officers on 0191-586 9527 (Easington), (01388) 815723 (Sedgefield), (01325) 469120 (Darlington) or 0191-332 4311 (Durham, Wear Valley, Teesdale, Derwentside and Chester-le-Street).