ESSEX fire service is keen to help homeowners falling foul of the law this summer.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is warning homeowners who are thinking of letting rooms, or their entire home, during the Olympic Games that they have an obligation under the law to ensure homes are safe in case of fire.

Jon Payne, assistant divisional officer, said: “I am sure that a lot of people in Essex are thinking about the opportunity the Olympics presents to make a bit of extra money by renting out rooms or even their entire home.

“But not many of these people will know that as soon as they let any part of their home they are legally obliged to ensure that proper fire precautions have been taken to guard against the risks posed by fire.

"This legal duty is a requirement of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and it applies to virtually all premises unless they are being used as a private dwelling with no shared parts such as a hallway or staircase."

He said there are three essential things to do: · Make sure you’ve carried out a fire risk assessment of your property, and take action to address any significant risks you identify.

· Make sure you’ve got an adequate fire detection and warning system in place.

· Make sure there’s an adequate escape route and your guests know what to do if there’s a fire.