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Vulnerable targeted as fire service drives down Fife casualties

FIrefighters are working to prevent more home fires in Fife.
FIrefighters are working to prevent more home fires in Fife.

Fires in Fife resulting in injury or death dropped by nearly half last year.

Figures for 2015-16 indicate that fire fatalities and casualties in the region fell by 49% compared to the previous three year average.

Accidental dwelling fires increased.

However, the resulting number of casualties was down by 56%.

Steven Michie, group manager for the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in Fife, said: “The work that we are doing with partners is bringing to fruition our desired decrease in dwelling fire casualties.”

Mr Michie said there was no room for complacency, with one person losing their life in a blaze set off by an unattended candle.

He said vulnerable people such as the elderly and those with dementia were among those most in need of home fire safety checks.

“I would encourage the public and communities to identify those vulnerable to fire and contact our freephone number. Maybe it’s a neighbour who they might be concerned about.

“Statistics show that fires happen to people in need of more support, particularly the elderly or those with cognitive impairment.”

Last year, the fire service distributed fire retardant bedding and blankets to prevent fires started by cigarettes. Recipients were referred to the fire service by health and social care staff.

The safety measure was one of the reasons behind the reduction in fire casualties, said the service.

Across Fife, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service staff completed 5,480 home fire safety visits, which was 46% more than the target of 3,750.

During 2015-16, fire crews turned up to 119 road accidents compared to 75 the previous year. This was reflected in the figure for casualties in non-fire emergencies. At 85, it was at a five year high.

Mr Michie added: “It’s a positive thing that the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is being informed earlier about these types of incidents.

“Police and ambulance call us for specialised skills. It’s not just about cutting people out of vehicles.”