10 December 2019
November until the end of February is statistically the time of year when the risk of accidental house fire fatalities increases.
In 2018/19 six people tragically lost their lives as a result of accidental house fires, and four of these fatalities occurred during the winter period (November-February).
Therefore NIFRS is urging the Community to be aware of their own fire safety, and the safety of others, during the winter months and festive period.
Alan Walmsley, Assistant Chief Fire & Rescue Officer, explains:
“This year I am calling on the Community to look out for each other throughout the winter months. During these colder months it’s more crucial than ever that people check in with their older family, friends and neighbours, and those who are isolated in our community.
“Please consider their wellbeing and ensure they have a working smoke alarm. Check their home for Christmas fire hazards, such as candles, Christmas tree lights, portable heaters, and overloaded sockets, and make sure they are being used safely, in order to ‘STOP’ fire in their home. Please refer them to us for free Home Fire Safety Check if necessary.
“Also, if you hear a neighbour’s smoke alarm going off, don’t ignore it- go and check. If there’s a fire, or if you can’t be sure, ring 999 and ask for NIFRS.
“We want you to enjoy yourself over the coming weeks by following our fire safety advice and ensuring you’re prepared for winter. By looking after your own safety, and the safety of those around you, you are not only helping to protect yourself and your loved ones from a range of fire and other emergencies, but you are also helping us as a Fire & Rescue Service. We are all ‘Safer Together.’
“Our Firefighters continue to be out on the ground engaging with at-risk people and we continue to work with our partners, from other voluntary and statutory organisations, to identify and reach those people who need our help most.
“We continue at this time of year to respond to a wide range of emergencies and are 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. Please take extra care while driving as winter weather, combined with the dark evenings and the Christmas rush, heightens the dangers on our roads.
“Happy Christmas and stay safe in 2020.”