In Ireland, domestic fires pose a serious risk to life and property, with an average of 4,000 house fires reported annually. Fires are often preventable but understanding what could start them is key to protecting your home and family.

1.Cooking Equipment

Cooking is a leading cause of house fires in Ireland. Unattended cooking, overheating oil, and accidental spills can quickly ignite a blaze.

Prevention Tips:

Never leave cooking unattended.
Keep flammable items (tea towels, paper) away from the cooker.
Invest in a fire blanket and kitchen-friendly fire extinguisher.

2.Electrical Appliances

Worn-out wiring, overloaded sockets, and malfunctioning devices often cause electrical fires.

Prevention Tips:

Regularly check appliances for wear and tear.
Avoid overloading power outlets.
Unplug appliances when not in use.
Keep a 3-foot clearance between electric heaters and any flammable items.
Never leave electric heaters on when unattended or while sleeping.

3.Smoking

Smoking indoors can result in fatal house fires, especially when cigarettes are carelessly discarded.

Prevention Tips:

Smoke outside when possible.
Use deep, sturdy ashtrays.
Ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished.

4.Chimney/Flues/Soot/Hot Ashes

Chimney fires can be particularly destructive and can escalate quickly in to a house fire. In fact Chimney/Flues/Soot and Hot Ashes contributed to over 1300 fires in Ireland alone last year.

Prevention Tips:

Have your chimney cleaned at least annually if you have an open fire
Only use quality coal/fuels and seasoned (dried) wood. Burning damp, varnished or treated wood, rubbish or waste can cause damage to your chimney over time.
Use a fire guard at all times especially when you leave the room and last thing at night.
Never dry clothes directly in front of an open fire as they could ignite.
Don’t store flammable materials close to the fire or stove. This includes fuel such as wood.
Allows ashes to completely cool (minimum 24 hours) before placing in a bin.

5. Candles

Candles, while popular for creating ambiance, can be a fire hazard if left burning unattended.

Prevention Tips:

Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to sleep.
Use candle holders that won’t tip over.
Consider flameless LED candles for added safety.

Fire Safety Basics

Fire safety starts with awareness and the right equipment. Ensure your home is equipped with:

Smoke alarms: Test them regularly to ensure they’re working.

Fire extinguishers: Keep one in the kitchen, garage, and near exits.

Fire blanket: Keep in a highly visible, easy to access position near your cooker.

Escape plan: Create and practice a family escape plan in case of fire.

Fire Statistics in Ireland

According to the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management, around 25 people die annually due to house fires in Ireland, and many of these tragedies could have been prevented with basic fire safety measures. A working smoke alarm is present in less than half of homes where fatal fires occur. You can find more statistics and fire safety information on gov.ie

By being aware of the common causes of fires and taking simple steps to prevent them, you can reduce the risk of fire in your home.

If you Discover a Fire:

Raise the alarm

Evacuate the premises

Call 999 or 112

Only tackle the fire if safe to do so

Be Smart. Be Prepared. Be Safe.