Fire chiefs issue festive safety message

The Scottish Fire and Rescue service is urging Monklands residents to“stay safe”over the festive period.

The warning comes after figures revealed firefighters responded to more than 500 accidental house fires across Scotland in the five weeks between December 7, 2016 and January 11 this year.

This is a stark increase from the 230 accidental house fires over the same period the previous year.

Accidental house fires can be caused by an increased use of heating and electrical appliances – as well as higher alcohol consumption during the holiday season.

Assistant chief officer David McGown, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s director of prevention and protection, said:“This winter, we will work closely with local communities and partner agencies to keep Scotland safe from fire and other emergencies.

“But, as always, we need the public’s help to reduce the amount of preventable fires we might see in the coming months.

“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 directly.

“Home fire safety visits are a key pillar of our prevention work that helps safeguard the public – especially vulnerable residents but also families and the wider community. These are free pre-arranged visits where staff identify signs to protect people and their homes.

“Our staff can also identify hazards in the home, help plan escape routes and supply and install smoke detectors for free – a vital tool for every home.”

Mr McGown also appealed to people to take care on the roads, as the colder weather can also see firefighters attend more traffic collisions due to treacherous conditions during ice and flooding.

He said:“Every year across Scotland, there is a rise in emergency calls to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service due to winter weather.

“We urge the public to take action now and be prepared for whatever hazards might come in the next few months.

“Winter weather also brings unexpected and dangerous conditions to our roads.

“It’s important to ensure that your vehicle is serviced, well maintained and that drivers take the necessary precautions when driving in bad weather.”

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

 For more online information visit: www. firescotland.gov.uk/winter