DEVON and Somerset Fire and Rescue is urging boat owners to carry out vital safety checks.

The Bank Holiday weekend is typically when the boat season gets under way and the fire service is working with the Boat Safety Scheme over Boat Safety Week to ensure safety.

Firefighters will be talking to boat owners and handing out leaflets.

The Boat Safety Scheme urges owners to keep their boats well maintained and to keep alert to possible leaks, poor running engines and the strong smell of petrol.

This year’s Boat Fire Safety Week has the support of the Royal Yachting Association, The Maritime and Coastguard Agency and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).