Hairdressers and barbers have formed an unlikely alliance with firefighters.

It forms part of Kent Fire and Rescue Service’s (KFRS) Haircare Network, which aims to raise awareness of fire safety in the home.

Customers now won’t just get a nice trim, but also a gentle nudge to sign up for a visit from KFRS.

The Safe and Well scheme will see firefighters pop by to fit free smoke alarms in homes and provide other support and advice.

Paul Kennett, who runs Fishers for Men barber shop in Windmill Street, Gravesend, said: “Hair professionals are perfectly placed to identify those clients who may need a little extra help and advice.

“We spend a lot of our working hours talking to people of all ages across our community, from the elderly to parents with young children.

“Clients often open up about the challenges they face in their day-to day lives, and hairdressers have the ideal opportunity to look out for those that may benefit from some free help from KFRS.”

“Clients often open up about the challenges they face in their day-to day lives, and hairdressers have the ideal opportunity to look out for those that may benefit from some free help from KFRS.”

Fishers for Men is one of more than 100 hair businesses in the area to sign up for the scheme, which targets the elderly, families with young children, people with disabilities and those who feel unsafe in their homes.

KFRS community safety manager Charlie Smith is very pleased with the response from locals so far.

Mr Smith said: “We are delighted to see so many hairdressers and barbers across the county sign up to work with us to help reach people within our communities who are most in need of our services.

“It is hoped that our Haircare Network can support our already well established local knowledge of those who need support.”

KFRS will also be offering hair professionals the chance to attend dementia-awareness training to further enhance their knowledge of the condition, which may assist them in working with some of their clients.

Anyone interested in signing up to the Haircare Network can do so at http://bit.ly/1Kfj5sm or by calling 0800 923 700.