HIGH WYCOMBE was the setting for a new fire safety film, set to be broadcast by the BBC later this year.

And station manager Jeremy Williams, of Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue, was the face in front of the camera, pointing out the dangers of a faulty fuse box.

The filming formed part of the new series of the consumer watchdog programme, Don't Get Done, Get Dom.

The scenes, filmed at Chiltern International Fire, in Stocking Lane, High Wycombe, showed the dangers of overloading a fuse box. This is a common risk in older homes that may not be able to cope with the demands of modern entertainment systems, computers and other appliances.

Mr Williams said: "You commonly find fuse boxes are in close vicinity to flammable objects, which is why a fire can so quickly take hold."

"We've seen here that from a simple fault in a fuse box a substantial amount of heat can be created, setting fire to the materials stored near it.

"That fire spread rapidly and involved the whole cupboard that it was in. You can see how quickly that fire would spread from there, potentially endangering the whole house. The smoke itself could very rapidly endanger people's lives."

He added that anyone with doubts over their electric systems and fire safety precautions should contact their local fire station for advice, or contact a registered electrician.

In the UK, around 7,000 fires a year are caused by faulty electrics and household appliances.

Chiltern International Fire hosted the film crew from Flame TV, which made the consumer safety film.

If you would like Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service to carry out a free check of the fire risks in your home, ring 01296 744477, or email cs@bucksfire.gov.uk