Partnership approach to protecting people at risk

On average 17,000 people are admitted to hospitals following a home accident each year and countless more attend A&E Departments and GP practices. Although falls are the most common accident cause, other hazards include poisoning, fire and smoke inhalation, strangulation (example by blind cords) drowning and choking.

Station Commander Alan Barr, NIFRS, said: “While fire safety is an issue that impacts everyone, we know there are people who are at a greater risk of having an accidental house fire because of their circumstances.

“Our ‘people at risk’ definition includes those aged 50 or older, people who have a disability or impaired mobility that would impact on their ability to acknowledge and respond to a fire in their home and those people who have already been referred to NIFRS by a partnership agency.

“Our aim is to protect those most at risk by putting in place measures to reduce the likelihood of a fire occurring but we cannot solve the problem alone.

“By working in partnership with Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, and indeed across the voluntary and health & social care sector, together we can identify people most at risk and raise awareness of fire safety across the community.”

Mayor of Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Councillor Peter Johnston, said: “Home Safety Checks are carried out by Council community health and wellbeing advisors who offer tips on all aspects of home safety for those over 65 years or families with young children under five years. Our advisors will identify the potential risks in your home, arrange for safety equipment to be delivered to your home if appropriate and refer you for a free smoke alarm.

“Similarly, we can refer people to NIFRS who would benefit from a Home Fire Safety Check. Local firefighters can visit to offer practical fire safety advice, develop fire escape plans and check and fit smoke alarms.

“This partnership approach will ultimately help save lives and helps us protect and engage directly with those in the community who need our help most.”