Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service shares vital checks you should take today after two people lose their lives in separate house fires within hours
Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) is urging everyone to prioritise home fire safety following two fatal house fire incidents within a matter of hours.
A man and a woman lost their lives in two separate incidents on Friday.
A man in his 20s died at the scene of a fire at a flat at Queen Victoria Gardens in the Fortwilliam area of north Belfast on Friday morning.
Firefighters from Westland, Whitla and Springfield stations rescued two casualties from the property and used a hose reel jet to extinguish the fire.
Later on Friday, firefighters from Bangor and Newtownards fire stations responded to reports of a house fire at Abbey Park, Bangor.
The fire was out on their arrival at 12.29pm and firefighters assisted with first aid on three casualties. Tragically, a woman, aged in her 50s, died at the scene.
Both incidents are currently under investigation.
The tragedies have prompted NIFRS to urge everyone to follow the ‘STOP Fire’ message:
- S – Smoke alarms
- T – Test alarms weekly
- O – Obvious dangers
- P – Plan your escape
NIFRS Area Commander Suzanne Fleming said: “The thoughts and sympathies of NIFRS are with the loved ones of a man and woman who sadly died on Friday following two separate house fires. These incidents serve as a stark reminder of how quickly fires can break out and how devastating their impact can be.
"We are urging everyone to take a moment today to check their smoke alarms and ensure they are working correctly, never remove the batteries, and if the alarm is faulty, replace it immediately.
"Check in on vulnerable family, friends, neighbours, and anyone who may need support to ensure they have working smoke alarms and CO alarms in rooms with fuel-burning appliances.
"We are also reminding the public of the importance of having a fire escape plan. Keep escape routes clear and keys close by to windows and doors to ensure quick access in an emergency.
"Fire prevention is at the heart of what we do at NIFRS. We will continue to work closely with the community to spread the STOP Fire message and urge everyone to remain vigilant and prioritise fire safety in the home this winter and beyond.”