NIFRS Releases Christmas Safety Message

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has released an appeal to remind the public to be aware of fire safety over the Christmas period.

NIFRS said that over the Christmas period last year (20 December 2012 – 6 January 2013), fire crews responded to 1,096 emergency incidents across Northern Ireland.

One man lost his life in one of the 54 accidental house fires that firefighters attended, while 23 people were injured and 10 people were rescued. Firefighters also attended 37 road traffic collisions rescuing 28 people, with 68 people being injured.

NIFRS said to be careful with fire hazards in the home, such as portable heaters, open fires that haven’t been lit for a long time, fairy lights, candles and decorations.

The Fire Service has also published a check list for the festive period:

• check that your Christmas tree lights conform to the British Standard
• don’t use lights with worn or frayed cables
• turn off lights at night or when you are leaving the house
• never place candles near your Christmas tree or furnishings
• never leave burning candles unattended
• never attach decorations to lights or heaters
• never overload electrical sockets
• never leave a cooker unattended - most fires start in the kitchen
• make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished before going to bed
• keep candles, lighters and matches out of the reach of children

Dale Ashford, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, said: "Christmas is traditionally a busy time for NIFRS as incidences of fire in the home increase due to extra fire hazards such as candles, fairy tree lights, portable heaters, overloaded sockets and people using fires that have not been lit for some time.

"I’m asking people to give priority to fire safety above all else and not to become complacent. Over the Christmas period people generally spend more time at home so be extra vigilant to avoid fires in your home especially if you have been consuming alcohol.

"Ensure you have a bed time routine, check that your smoke alarms are working and if you have visitors ensure that they are aware of your fire escape plans and what to do in an emergency.

"The weather over the last number of weeks has been quite mild for this time of year however your Fire & Rescue Service is well-prepared and well-rehearsed in terms of our contingency planning for any severe weather conditions that we may encounter over the next couple of weeks. I am encouraging everyone to also think about their own personal preparedness for the challenges that winter weather can bring.

"We want people to enjoy themselves and be safe over the coming weeks. If everyone takes simple, but sensible steps by making sure they are following our safety advice and are well prepared for winter weather then they can help us as a Fire & Rescue Service and help themselves to have a happy and safe Christmas."

(IT/CD)