Fire Safety at Home
As you get older you can be at more risk of having a fire at home. Our Fire Safety Guide has been produced with the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service and could help to save your life or the life of an older person you know
Fire Safety
It is important that you are aware of the risk that fires can pose to older people, as statistically people over fifty are more at risk of fire than younger people.
The main risk of fire to older people comes with some long-term medical conditions, disabilities and medicines can affect alertness, concentration and the ability to react quickly. If you are concerned about the side effects of your medication, you should speak to your GP.
People who are on a low income can also be at risk if they cannot afford to repair or replace faulty equipment such as cookers or electric blankets and electrical sockets. If you need repairs in your home, there may be a local Care and Repair service which could help.
Interlinked Fire and Smoke Alarms
If you are a homeowner in Scotland, you must ensure your home meets the standard for interlinked fire and smoke alarms introduced in February 2022.
What causes fires?
Most fires in the home are caused by forgetfulness or being distracted whilst cooking.
The most common cause of fatal fires is unsafe disposal of smouldering cigarettes, tobacco or matches. Most accidental fires which cause injury or death are caused by a lack of concentration, or problems with thinking or remembering.
Some illnesses and disabilities can also make it difficult to respond quickly and safely if there is a fire.
Want a copy of this guide?
All of our guides are available to download as PDFs. If you would like to request a paper copy of a guide to be sent to you, please call our Helpline on 0800 12 44 222
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service provides advice about keeping your home safe, and have also worked with us on this Fire Safety guide.
You can visit Fire Scotland's website for more detailed advice - click here
You can also book a free home safety visit through the Fire Scotland website - click here