The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has issued a solemn and urgent appeal for the public to prioritise home fire safety, following the deaths of two people in separate house fires that occurred within a few hours of each other on Friday, 12th December 2025.

At 10.55am on Friday, Firefighters from Westland, Whitla, and Springfield Fire Stations were dispatched to a flat fire at Queen Victoria Gardens, Fortwilliam, Belfast. Crews used breathing apparatus to enter the property and successfully rescued two casualties, extinguishing the fire with one hose reel jet. Despite their efforts, a man, aged in his 20s, tragically died at the scene.

Later that afternoon, at 12.29pm, crews from Bangor and Newtownards Fire Stations responded to a separate house fire at Abbey Park, Bangor. Upon arrival, the fire was already out. Firefighters provided first aid assistance to three casualties at the scene. However, a woman, aged in her 50s, tragically died as a result of the incident.

Both incidents are currently under official investigation to determine the causes.

In light of these devastating losses, the NIFRS is imploring everyone across Northern Ireland to take immediate steps to check their fire safety provisions, particularly working smoke alarms, to protect their homes and families.

NIFRS is urging the community to follow the 'STOP Fire' message.

> S – Smoke alarms

> T – Test alarms weekly

> O – Obvious dangers

> P – Plan your escape

NIFRS Area Commander Suzanne Fleming said: "The thoughts and sympathies of NIFRS are with the loved ones of a man and woman who sadly died today following 2 separate house fires. These incidents serve as a stark reminder of how quickly fires can break out and how devastating their impact can be. "We are urging everyone to take a moment today to check their smoke alarms and ensure they are working correctly, never remove the batteries, and if the alarm is faulty, replace it immediately. Check in on vulnerable family, friends, neighbours, and anyone who may need support to ensure they have working smoke alarms and CO alarms in rooms with fuel-burning appliances.

"We are also reminding the public of the importance of having a fire escape plan. Keep escape routes clear and keys close by to windows and doors to ensure quick access in an emergency.

"Fire prevention is at the heart of what we do at NIFRS. We will continue to work closely with the community to spread the STOP Fire message and urge everyone to remain vigilant and prioritise fire safety in the home this winter and beyond."

NIFRS Safety Advice

• Have a working smoke alarm fitted on each floor of your property.

• Have a working carbon monoxide alarm installed in rooms with fuel burning appliances.

• NEVER leave cooking unattended and avoid cooking whilst under the influence of alcohol. Make sure cooking appliances are turned off after use.

• Check your Christmas lights are in good working order and conform to the British Standard.

• NEVER overload sockets and always turn Christmas lights off before going to bed or if you are leaving the house. Remember one plug per socket.

• Only buy from reputable retailers. Ensure electrical equipment and chargers comply with the required safety standards.

• If you are using extra heaters during the winter months, make sure they are kept away from soft furnishings and Christmas decorations.

• If you choose to have a real Christmas tree, ensure it is well hydrated as a dry tree becomes more flammable.

• Keep candles away from soft furnishings, decorations, Christmas trees and wrapping paper. Ensure they are out of reach from pets and children. NEVER leave candles unattended.

• Make sure cigarettes are extinguished correctly and empty ashtrays safely. NEVER smoke in bed.

• Keep your escape routes clear and discuss your fire escape with your family and anyone else who may be staying with you.

• Check on older relatives and neighbours to ensure their safety.