Waterford firefighters in fire warning to households including over candle fears

With Fire Safety Week 2024 taking place from September 30 to October 6, Waterford Fire Services are urging the public to be extra cautious about potential fire risks in their homes, particularly as we enter the colder months. The importance of ensuring fully operational fire alarms cannot be overstated.

This year's theme is ‘We Didn't Start the Fire - But What Did?’ and the campaign, jointly run with the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, aims to prevent home fires by understanding common causes and taking preventive measures.

Colin Barden, Senior Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Waterford Fire Service, emphasised, "With colder weather on the horizon, it's crucial to be aware of additional fire risks. We urge homeowners to keep themselves and their families safe by ensuring smoke alarms are properly fitted, functional, and tested regularly. A working smoke alarm could be the key to keeping your family safe if a fire occurs."

Tuesday, October 1, is Smoke Alarm Day, serving as a reminder to check that your smoke alarm is operational, with at least one on every floor and remember, when it sounds, get outside and stay outside.

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Niall Curtin, Chief Fire Officer with Waterford Fire Service, highlights the increased risks during colder months, "As temperatures drop, we tend to use more heating appliances. It's vital to be aware of the dangers these can pose. We advise people to have their heating systems serviced, keep flammable materials away from heat sources, and never leave portable heaters unattended."

With Halloween and Christmas approaching, additional risks exist from festive lighting, flammable Halloween costumes and candles. It's crucial to have an action plan in place should a fire occur in your home.

For more information on smoke alarms and Fire Safety Week, visit www.firesafetyweek.ie and look for the hashtags #24FSW and #STOPfire across social media.