BUSINESSES in Wiltshire can help reduce time wasted through false fire alarms with a new guide launched this week.

Chubb Fire, one of the UK's leading fire specialists, has produced the free Guide to Managing False Alarms to reduce the number of unwanted signals from alarm systems.

Managing director John Spencer said: "Businesses need to share responsibility for unwanted fire signals, which have now reached unacceptable proportions.

"Too many false alarms can prejudice the safety of occupants, who may not react correctly when the system responds to a real fire.

"They are also placing an unacceptable burden on the fire and rescue services' limited resources, which in turn could potentially put lives at risk."

It is hoped the guide will play a key role in educating staff to be aware of the problem, which has escalated in recent years.

In 2001 the Fire Brigade dealt with more than 481,000 unwanted fire signals, an average of 1,318 a day.

The 12-page booklet explores the most common causes of false alarms and provides practical assistance regarding the steps businesses can take to manage and reduce them.

For a copy of the guide call Chubb on 0800 321666.