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)