Landlords could face fines of up to £5,000 if they fail to meet smoke alarm laws

The regulations, which are expected to come into effect from October subject to parliamentary approval, will make it compulsory to fit the alarms in rented homes.

Under the new laws the alarms must be fitted on every floor of the property as well as carbon dioxide alarms in buildings which burn solid fuels. Landlord must check that they are working at the start of every new tenancy.

To help with the introduction of the new regulations the government has provided Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service with a limited number of free smoke and carbon monoxide alarms which will be given out to relevant landlords.

Deputy chief fire officer Phil Garrigan said: "We urge those landlords who need to take action to comply with the new regulations, to fit smoke and carbon monoxide alarms where necessary. Landlords can register their interest for the stock of free alarms in Merseyside by contacting Fire Service Direct on 0800 731 5958 or by email at FireServiceDirect2@merseyfire.gov.uk."

In March 2014 people were urged by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service to back calls for a law change for the rented sector to help improve the number of alarms in properties across Merseyside.

Mr Garrigan said: "A working smoke alarm is a vital piece of life saving equipment for your home and we regularly see the impact these alarms have by alerting people and giving them the vital seconds they need to escape a fire.

"Often those in rented property are among the most vulnerable members of society, elderly residents, lone tenants, those with disabilities or who have difficulty with mobility or dependency issues.

"Introducing a requirement for landlords to install smoke alarms in their properties will provide additional protection for those who are most at risk from fire."

Over the next ten years it is estimated that the new laws will save 231 lives and prevent 5,860 fewer injuries.