People will die in fires unless friends, relatives and neighbours ensure the most vulnerable in society are safe, the Highlands’ fire chief warned yesterday.
Scott Hay, head of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service in the region, issued the stark warning at a public safety committee meeting at Highland Council in Inverness.
He revealed that five fire-related fatalities in 2014-15 had been revised to four, based on the outcome of a post incident inquiry – but he said that was four too many.
Mr Hay told councillors that firefighters across the region need the public to put them in touch with those at the greatest risk from fire.
Scotland-wide, there have been 28 fire-related deaths this year.
Contributory factors included age, people living alone, physical and mental health conditions, chaotic lifestyles, smoking, alcohol and drugs use.
Mr Hay said: “To lose a life as a result of fire is absolutely devastating and it always leaves a lasting impact on the families, friends and communities touched by the tragedy.
“The reality is that fatal fires are preventable and it’s often very simple steps that can mean the difference between life and death.”
He added: “We all have the power to make a difference, just by talking to people we know who might be vulnerable and putting them in touch with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service can make that difference.”
Among those killed in fires in the past year were 93-year-old Lady Jean Gilmour who died at her home in Rosehall, Sutherland in February.
Two days later, 38-year-old Colin Glen was found dead at his home in Strathspey Avenue in Aviemore after a fire.
As part of the Join Scotland’s Fight Against Fire campaign, the service is urging anyone who looks out for the wellbeing of a friend, relative, colleague or neighbour to discuss fire safety with them.
The figure for accidental house fires in Highland in 2014-15 was 156, compared with 144 the previous year.
Highland has seen a reduction in the number of deliberate fires with 161 in 2014-15 compared with 219 the year before.
The number of non-fatal accidental house fire casualties was down in Highland from 41 in 2013-14 to 32 last year.
The fire service offers free home safety visits. Anyone interested should call the freephone number 0800 073 1999, by texting ‘FIRE’ to 80800 or by filling in an online form at www.firescotland.gov.uk