Douglas Alexander MP

Labour MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire South

“TIS THE SEASON TO BE CAREFUL” warns MP

DON’T FUEL FIRE WITH ALCOHOL”
 
MP Douglas Alexander has joined up with local Fire Crews in urging care this Christmas to avoid the risk of house fires.
 
The local MP – whose own house was devastated by fire caused by an electrical fault in September 2007 paid a visit to Johnstone Fire Station to drive home the seasonal safety message.
 
MP Douglas said:
 
“A recent survey showed that although there had been sustained reductions in fire deaths in Scotland since 1990, Scotland’s rate of fire deaths was still double the UK average per million population.”
 
The survey shows that of 171 fatal fire incidents analysed 131 were recorded as accidental dwelling fire deaths.
 
The most common causes were smokers’ materials (54) and cooking appliances (28). Alcohol was a contributory factor in 81 of the 131 domestic dwelling cases. Most fires started in living rooms (59), followed by kitchens (37) and bedrooms (22).
 
The Study found that 47 per cent of dwelling fire death victims were aged 60 or over, 53 per cent lived alone and victims were more likely to live in the poorest parts of Scotland – 31 per cent of accidental dwelling fires were in the 15 per cent most deprived areas.  The most deprived areas also suffer some 46 per cent of secondary fires, mainly started deliberately.
 
Being under the influence of alcohol can greatly increase the risk of fire breaking out, as the effects of alcohol can make us more uncoordinated, uninhibited and less vigilant. Just one act of carelessness when smoking or cooking food has the potential to result in someone losing their home, their possessions or ultimately, their life.
 
MP Douglas said:
 
“The crews here at Johnstone and across Renfewshire do a great job. They do that job with professionalism and bravery. I should know, because back in 2007 they saved my house when it was ablaze.
 
“But they need and deserve all our help.”
 
Alcohol continues to be the single greatest contributory factor to people dying in accidental house fires in Scotland. Last year alone, 24 people lost their lives in alcohol-related fires, the most common cause being the careless use of cigarettes, matches and lighters or misuse of cooking appliances.
 
The advice is clear – don’t get so drunk that you can’t take care of yourself, your family or your home.
 
In a bid to reduce the number of accidental alcohol related fires, people are being advised to:

• Buy food on the way back from the pub, rather than attempting to cook when they get home
• Make sure all cigarettes are properly extinguished before they go to sleep
• Ensure they have a working smoke alarm installed as this will greatly increase the chances of escaping if fire breaks out in the home

Anyone who is concerned over the safety of their home should contact their local fire and rescue service for confidential advice and information or text FIRE to 61611 to request a free home safety check.