The first virtual National Fire Safety Week was officially launched this morning via an online video by Darragh O’Brien TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage.
National Fire Safety Week, 5th – 12th October, jointly run with the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, is about enhancing fire safety, particularly in the home. This year’s theme is “Smoke Alarms Save Lives”.
The campaign will focus on Fire Safety in the home as the public continues to spend an increased amount of time at home during the public health situation.
Minister O’Brien noted that: “the thought of a fire is terrifying yet many of us feel that it can’t happen to us. Fire doesn’t choose. It can happen to any of us at any time. STOP and spread the word this Fire Safety Week. STOP Fire and remember, smoke alarms save lives.”
Both the very young and the elderly are particularly vulnerable and these groups account for almost half of the domestic fatalities.
Dublin Fire Brigade Chief Fire Officer Dennis Keeley joined the Minister at the launch. He reminded the public of the STOP Fire steps which every household is encouraged to practice.
“STOP has only four letters – four simple steps to keep you and those you care about safe.”
While National Fire Safety Week marks the beginning of an intensive media advertising campaign to run until the Spring, Minister O’Brien emphasised the importance of keeping the public aware of the dangers of fire be maintained throughout the year.
The Minister paid tribute to the contribution made by the Fire Service during the current COVID crisis.
He states that: “We can count ourselves incredibly lucky that communities throughout Ireland have at their disposal such a fine group of brave frontline public servants not just this week but every week.
“The dedication, commitment and willingness to serve and contribute during this crisis is clear for all to see.
“They have stepped up when needed and the calm professional reassurance they always provide us is perhaps more valuable than ever during this difficult time.”
