Fire chiefs are urging residents to help stop preventable deaths...by making a five-minute phone call.

The plea has been issued by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) in a bid to reduce the risk of house fires.

Carers, families and friends of people who are at risk of serious injury or death because of an accidental fire in the home are being asked to help put local firefighters in touch with them.

Latest statistics show people who are over the age of 50, smoke and either have mobility issues, live alone or use medical oxygen are most at risk of fire in the home.

In the local divisional area, which covers Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire and Inverclyde, a total of 24 people over the age of 50 have been a casualty of an accidental fire at home in the last 12 months.

James McNeil, SFRS area commander, said: “We know what type of person is most at risk from an accidental fire in the home but we don’t know who or where they are.

“Right now, we are not able to visit people in their homes to identify risks and give potentially lifesaving advice and that is why we are asking our communities to help us reach these people who are most at risk.

“The greatest challenge for us has always been reaching the most vulnerable people in our communities to make sure they have the lifesaving advice and support they need.”

As part of the Make the Call campaign, local residents are being asked to use the free SFRS online Home Fire Safety Checker to assess whether someone they know may be at risk.

Mr McNeil said: “If you know someone who is over 50 and smokes and lives alone, has mobility issues or uses medical oxygen, we need you to help us reach them.

“Make the call to us and we can ensure that the people who may be at risk get the fire safety advice and support they need to help them stay safe in the home during the coronavirus pandemic and beyond.”

A five-minute phone call to SFRS’ free helpline will see the caller receive a return call from their local fire station to offer advice or, where Covid-19 guidelines allow, a visit from officers.

Mr McNeil added: “If you are a carer or family member, you can refer them to us on their behalf. If you are a neighbour or a concerned friend, you must ask them for their consent before you refer them.

“Call them, check in with them if you can and adhere to social distancing guidelines and encourage them to seek our advice or ask if you can call us on their behalf.

“Our staff are trained and equipped to offer the best advice possible but, to do that, we need you to make the call and put them in touch with us.”

For more information, visit HERE or call the free helpline on 0800 073 1999.