The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has issued a reminder that while many New Year's resolutions are short-lived, fire safety habits must remain a year-round priority.

The appeal comes in the wake of several house fire tragedies last month, highlighting the increased risks associated with the winter season.

Statistically, winter is the most dangerous period for accidental domestic fires, with the majority of incidents sparked by cooking, smoking materials, and faulty or overloaded electrical appliances. As residents clear away festive decorations and reset their homes for the year ahead, the NIFRS is promoting simple, consistent actions to mitigate these risks.

Key advice includes avoiding the temptation to overload plug sockets, ensuring all electrical goods are purchased from reputable sellers, and never leaving cooking or candles unattended.

NIFRS Group Commander David Shortt commented: "We all know how long, dark and cold our winters can be in Northern Ireland, and it's only natural that everyone heads indoors to stay warm. But it's also the season that is most high risk for accidental house fires. Little things like leaving a saucepan unattended for a moment while cooking that new recipe, forgetting to switch off the portable heater before you go to bed or leaving a cigarette to smoulder can turn a cosy evening into a dangerous and sometimes life-changing incident. "This winter, we're encouraging households to start or continue making small changes that really make a difference. We want people to avoid leaving cooking unattended, check their electrical wires and plug sockets, keep warm safely, and ensure all smoking materials are put out correctly.

"Over the years, we've seen families whose quick thinking or bedtime routines prevented fires from spreading. Our message is simple. Make these new habits the resolutions that really count in 2026. It's the little things done consistently that keep homes the safe spaces they're meant to be.

"Above all, we're urging everyone to make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in your home. If you have elderly or vulnerable relatives and neighbours, take some time to check in on them and offer to make sure their smoke alarms are working or help them complete an online Home Fire Safety Check at www.nifrs.org."

Essential Winter Safety Checklist:

• Alarms: Fit working smoke alarms on every floor of your home and test them regularly.

• Electricals: Watch for signs of overloaded sockets, such as scorch marks, sparks, or the smell of hot plastic.

• Cooking: Never leave the hob unattended. Avoid cooking if you are tired or have consumed alcohol or drowsy medication.

Bedtime Routine: Switch off portable heaters and chargers, extinguish all candles and cigarettes, and close internal doors to protect escape routes.

• Planning: Create a fire escape plan, ensure all householders are aware of it, and keep exit routes clear of obstructions.

In the event of a fire, the NIFRS advises the public to follow the "Get Out, Stay Out, Call 999" rule rather than attempting to tackle the blaze themselves.