Overview

• Fire brigades responded to almost 20,000 incidents across domestic, industrial, vehicle, forest and maritime settings last year.
• Chimneys, flues, hot ashes and soot emerged as the leading ignition sources in 2024.
• Blazes started by malicious intent and rubbish burning also featured prominently in last year’s figures.
• Domestic fires frequently stemmed from electrical wiring faults, cooking accidents and heating equipment issues.
• With 21 of the 25 deaths among people aged 55 and over, authorities recommend fitting smoke alarms on every level and testing them weekly to prevent rapid smoke inhalation.