A flat in Dumfries sustained significant damage from flames, heat and smoke after a fire took hold in the early hours of Thursday (6 February).
Two Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) crews from Dumfries responded to the incident at the town’s Kirkpatrick Court shortly after 2:20am, with firefighters reaching the scene around six minutes after a member of the public made a 999 call.
Station Manager Craig McGoldrick said: “The incident commander sent two firefighters into the property wearing breathing apparatus and equipped with a hosereel water jet.
“They found a fire had broken out within the living room and successfully extinguished the flames before they could spread, however the remainder of the property and the block’s communal stairwell had been damaged by smoke.
“Fortunately no-one was hurt in this incident but it is a clear reminder that fire can strike anywhere at any time.
“This fire appears to have been caused by clothing having been left on a storage heater and we urge anyone with portable heating appliances to be mindful of the risk and make sure they use their devices safely.
“Any type of portable heater can start a fire if it is used incorrectly so it’s vital people read and understand the manufacturer’s instructions before using one.
“They should always be switched off before you go to bed and things like furniture, bedding, curtains and clothing should never be placed too close as the heater could cause them to ignite.”
Firefighters in Dumfries and Galloway, like their colleagues throughout Scotland, constantly work to reduce the number of fires by taking potentially life-saving advice to residents of their communities.
By working closely with members of the public and their fellow professionals from health, housing, education, social work, police and other agencies, firefighters have seen a steady drop in the number of fire-related deaths and injuries over the past decade.
House fires remain a significant threat to life, property and the local economy however, and SFRS officers are determined to continue working to reach those who could most benefit from their advice and support.
Station Manager McGoldrick continued: “Even where no-one is hurt or killed, fire in the home is incredibly traumatic and often leaves deep emotional trauma in its wake.
“Small fires can cause massive damage to property meaning significant financial cost to the people involved and the loss of cherished possessions that can never be replaced.
“Working smoke alarms give people the best chance of escaping a fire in the home without injury and it is absolutely vital every property is protected by these life-saving devices.
“In quickly drawing attention to the danger, working smoke alarms not only buy vital time for people to get to safety, they also raise the chance firefighters will be able to limit the damage by stopping the flames from spreading.
“We need the public’s help to protect our communities. Many of us look out for someone who could be vulnerable and it’s important we put them in touch with the fire service so the right support can be provided.
“Thousands of people have already benefited from a free home fire safety visit, where local firefighters pop round at a convenient time to share some tips and provide welcome reassurance.
“It’s a very effective programme that has proven hugely popular, so if anyone thinks they or someone they know could benefit, then we want to hear from them.”
Anyone can join Scotland’s fight against fire and register for a free home fire safety visit by calling 0800 0731 999 or texting ‘check’ to 61611. They can also fill out a form at www.firescotland.gov.uk or contact their local fire station.
SFRS has published advice to ensure home heating appliances are used safely, which can be found at www.firescotland.gov.uk/your-safety/for-householders/home-heating.aspx
