Chimneys, hot ashes, and soot remained the leading causes of domestic fires in Ireland last year, contributing to 25 fire-related deaths across the country, according to new national statistics.
The figures from the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management revealed that 21 of those who died in fire incidents were aged 55 or over, highlighting the particular vulnerability of older residents to fire-related fatalities.
Fire brigades responded to nearly 20,000 fire incidents in 2024, spanning homes, industrial facilities, forests, grasslands, outdoor rubbish sites, vehicles, ships, and aircraft. Within domestic settings, 1,155 house fires originated specifically in chimneys, while electrical wiring, cooking equipment, and heating systems also proved frequent fire sources.
Some residential fires were attributed to malicious intent or outdoor rubbish burning that spread to properties. Beyond homes, fire crews attended hundreds of incidents in factories, shops, and commercial buildings, along with over 2,000 vehicle fires and dozens involving ships or aircraft.
Keith Leonard, National Director for Fire and Emergency Management, offered condolences to affected families while emphasizing the preventative potential of the data. “We hope that publishing this data will remind all of us of the importance of vigilance and fire prevention,” he said.
Leonard stressed essential safety measures for all households: “Our core message is to fit a working smoke alarm and test it weekly, have your chimney cleaned, and have an escape plan for your household should a fire break out.”
Given the disproportionate impact on older residents, Leonard urged public vigilance regarding elderly relatives and neighbors. “The next time you are in the home of an older relative or neighbour, make sure they have a working smoke alarm – it is the most important piece of fire safety equipment for the home,” he emphasized.
The statistics underscore the continued importance of basic fire prevention measures and regular maintenance of household heating systems.