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06/10/2015
Smoking Is Biggest Cause Of Accidental Fire Deaths In NI
Smoking is the biggest cause of accidental fire deaths in Northern Ireland, according to the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS).
There have been 53 accidental fire deaths over the past five years and 22 of these were as a direct result of smoking materials.
During North South Fire Safety Week, 05 - 11 October, NIFRS is reminding the public, and in particular smokers, of the dangers of smoking and smoking materials in their homes and the potentially fatal consequences.
Alan Walmsley, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, said: "In the last five years Firefighters across Northern Ireland have attended 355 house fires caused by smoking materials. Last year we attended 72 house fires caused by smoking materials and sadly four people lost their lives. Unfortunately this was an increase on the previous year when we attended 58 house fires and two people lost their lives as a result of smoking materials.
"Fires caused by smoking materials can spread very rapidly within moments through a house. I would remind the public to be extra careful if they are smoking or disposing of smoking materials in their home. Make sure cigarettes are stubbed out properly before going to bed and be extra careful if you have been drinking alcohol or are feeling drowsy. Never ever smoke in bed or leave a lit cigarette, cigar or pipe unattended as they burn downwards and can easily overturn and set fire to something. Young children are always attracted to matches or lighters and these should also be kept out of reach."
(CD)
There have been 53 accidental fire deaths over the past five years and 22 of these were as a direct result of smoking materials.
During North South Fire Safety Week, 05 - 11 October, NIFRS is reminding the public, and in particular smokers, of the dangers of smoking and smoking materials in their homes and the potentially fatal consequences.
Alan Walmsley, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, said: "In the last five years Firefighters across Northern Ireland have attended 355 house fires caused by smoking materials. Last year we attended 72 house fires caused by smoking materials and sadly four people lost their lives. Unfortunately this was an increase on the previous year when we attended 58 house fires and two people lost their lives as a result of smoking materials.
"Fires caused by smoking materials can spread very rapidly within moments through a house. I would remind the public to be extra careful if they are smoking or disposing of smoking materials in their home. Make sure cigarettes are stubbed out properly before going to bed and be extra careful if you have been drinking alcohol or are feeling drowsy. Never ever smoke in bed or leave a lit cigarette, cigar or pipe unattended as they burn downwards and can easily overturn and set fire to something. Young children are always attracted to matches or lighters and these should also be kept out of reach."
(CD)
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Four people have died in accidental house fires, according to figures from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Services (NIFRS). The figures are a 43% reduction compared to last year, however the NIFRS said it is still four too many.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
