NIFRS Renews Smoke Alarm Plea

Home owners are being reminded of the need to have a working smoke alarm following two fatal house fires in December.

The NIFRS emphasised the need to prioritise fire safety in the home after two accidental blazes occured at premises without working smoke alarms.

Statistics show that 12 people were injured in accidental fires at local dwellings last month alone, with two people tragically losing their lives.

Of the 78 accidental fires that ignited throughout the month, 13 of those were at properties without a functioning alarm.

The stark statistics prompted NIFRS Group Commander Gerry Lennon to renew his appeal for stricter and more habitual fire safety habits among the general public.

The winter period is known as a high risk time for house fires due to increased hazards, such as candles, portable heaters and overloaded sockets.

Head of Fire Prevention, Mr Lennon said: "The reality is that the danger of people being killed in accidental dwelling fires is higher during these months than at any other time of the year.

"This is why it is especially important to ensure your home, and the homes of your family, friends and neighbours, are fitted with working smoke alarms. Smoke alarms are vital as they alert occupants of the house to a fire, allowing more time to escape.

"In December it was encouraging that several accidental dwelling fires were reported to NIFRS due to a neighbour hearing the smoke alarm, and making the call to us. We would continue to encourage neighbours to act if they hear a smoke alarm."

NIFRS Community Safety Ambassador and former Northern Ireland Goalkeeper Pat Jennings highlighted the extra fire safety risks facing the more vulnerable members of society.

"The winter months are particularly dangerous for those who are at risk- people aged 50 and over, anyone who has a disability or impaired mobility, or anyone with a health condition that would impact on their ability to respond to an emergency," Mr Jennings said.

"As NIFRS Community Safety Ambassador I would appeal to the community to consider the wellbeing of those at risk, and ensure they have a working smoke alarm. Check their home for fire hazards, and make sure they are being used safely, in order to 'STOP' fire in their home. Please refer them to NIFRS for a free Home Fire Safety Check if necessary."



(JG/CM)