Scottish Fire & Rescue Service (SFRS) is calling on communities to help stop preventable deaths in house fires, by making a 5 minute phone call.

Make the Call is designed to be a hard-hitting appeal to carers, family and friends of those who are at risk of serious injury or even death because of an accidental fire in their home.

The latest statistics show that more than 20 people who are over 50 years old, smoke, and either have mobility issues, live alone, or use medical oxygen have already been injured, some seriously, by such fires between the start of January and the end of April 2020. Tragically, 12 of those people sadly passed away.

SFRS are now asking people to consider home fire safety when checking in on vulnerable neighbours, patients, friends and family members during lockdown, and to put them in touch with SFRS, with either person contacting the free Home Fire Safety Visit by phone: 0800 0731 999, or texting “fire”: 80800.

Alternatively, you can also complete the booking form online. A handy fire safety checklist is also available to view or download as a pdf.

Falkirk’s local SFRS Community Action Team is also available for advice, and can be contacted by email: E.FWL.CAT@firescotland.gov.uk

For further information, please visit the SFRS website.