Highland festive house fire figures issued in national campaign

Figures released today (Monday, December 9) show that the number of accidental house fires in Highland during the festive season has ranged in recent years between 11 and 20.

More than 500 accidental house fires were recorded across Scotland during last year’s season.

Figures show the extent of seasonal dwelling fires responded to by firefighters, with a total of 509 incidents recorded between December 10 and January 14.

Highland's figures in recent years have been: 18 (2014/15), 17 (2015/16), 20 (2016/17), 11 (2017/18) and 20 (2018/19).

The national numbers further revealed that of the 91 people who sadly became a casualty of these fires, 37 were aged 60 or over – more than 40 per cent.

The hard-hitting numbers were highlighted as the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service launched its winter safety campaign, including a hard-hitting national television advert highlighting the dangers of cooking while under the influence of alcohol.

The festive period is traditionally one of the busiest times of year for SFRS and its partners – with the increase in accidental house fires during the period typically caused by a higher use of heating and electrical appliances - as well as higher alcohol consumption, decorations and the traditional use of candles also playing a role.

Assistant Chief Officer Ross Haggart is the SFRS director of prevention and protection.

He said: “Ultimately, we want people to remember the festive period for all the right reasons.

“When our firefighters have to attend a fire in someone’s house at Christmas time, and we enter a house which is burning but full of Christmas presents and decorations – it’s heartbreaking.

“But unfortunately, the festive period sees potentially deadly combinations come together – increased use of electricity, drinking alcohol and cooking, decorations being put up near heat sources.

“It’s all too easy to think that it will never happen to you - but it can.

“That’s why we are appealing to communities across Scotland – don’t let Christmas end, or your New Year start, with tragedy.”

This winter SFRS will work closely with local communities and partner agencies to keep Scotland safe from fire and other emergencies.

However, ACO Haggart is urging communities to play their part by ensuring that the most elderly and vulnerable members of the community are properly supported this Christmas and in to 2020.

He added: “I would directly appeal to people to check if their elderly relatives, neighbours or friends are in need of our support and to contact us.

“Home fire safety visits are a key pillar of our prevention work that help safeguard the public – especially vulnerable residents.

“These are free pre-arranged visits where SFRS staff identify signs to protect people and their homes.

“SFRS staff can also identify hazards in the home, help plan escape routes and provide information about smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms.”

Cooking remains the number one cause of fires in the home in Scotland, with alcohol a top contributing factor.

During the festive period, the SFRS traditionally sees a rise in incidents related to cooking while someone is under the influence of alcohol.

ACO Haggart continued: “When it comes to celebrating and marking the occasion – please do not drink, then attempt to cook.

“Cooking remains the number one cause of house fires in Scotland and often alcohol is a contributing factor, especially during this period.

“Consider making something beforehand and have it prepared, or wait until you are no longer affected by alcohol.”

Community Safety Minister Ash Denham said: “While we want people to be able to celebrate and relax over the festive period, it is extremely important that they also keep themselves and others safe. For that reason I’d urge people to follow the advice of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and act responsibly.”

If you, or someone you know, is vulnerable or may be at risk from fire please get in touch and arrange a free home fire safety visit with local firefighters by calling 0800 0731 999.

For more advice on how to keep yourself and your home safe from fire during winter visit www.firescotland.gov.uk/winter

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