Scheme will get vital safety advice to deaf
Sign language plan
A new initiative has been launched to keep deaf people in Rutherglen and Cambuslang safe from fire.
Two Scottish Fire and Rescue (SFRS) community safety advocates will formally train as level two British sign language interpreters to work with the deaf community across South Lanarkshire.
It is hoped the scheme - which is the first of its kind in Scotland will help firefighters communicate warning signs of fire and how to make homes safer.
The trained workers, Shona Scott and Julie Muir, will work in partnership with Deaf Services Lanarkshire in learning to communicate key fire safety advice to the deaf community.
This innovative scheme follows the opening of the service’s Safe and Well House at its HQ in Cambuslang, where firefighters support the elderly population by helping them learn how to look out for signs of danger that could lead to slips and trips, while also identifying the needs of those living with dementia.
Alistair Stewart, SFRS local area liaison officer in South Lanarkshire, said: “It’s vital that we are able to deliver our fire safety messages to each and every member of society, especially groups who are underrepresented.”
Around 1,000 residents in Lanarkshire are thought to use sign language.
Liz McCluske, of Deaf Services Lanarkshire, added: “On behalf of Deaf Services Lanarkshire I sincerely appreciate the work that has gone into developing this key partnership, which will ensure that members of our deaf community are more aware of the potential hazards around the family home.”
To arrange a free home fire safety visit, contact SFRS on the freephone number 0800 073 1999, text ‘FIRE’ to 80800 or fill in a form at www.firescotland.gov.uk.