Worst year for fatal house fires in quarter of a century

Last year was the worst 12 months for house fire fatalities in a quarter of a century.

There were 16 deaths in house fires in 2025, with the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) stating that half of the incidents were related to cigarettes and other “smoking material”.

A third of the incidents did not have working smoke alarms.

Three quarters of the fatalities were people who lived alone, and over 65% of those were also in NIFRS’ “people-at-risk” group.

The 16 deaths make up the highest number of house-fire fatalities since 1999.

The fire service has urged the public to start the year by taking extra care at home and making sure smoke alarms are working.

NIFRS also called on people to check on those most at risk

NIFRS assistant chief fire and rescue officer Marcus Wright said: “We are pleading with the public to make home fire safety a priority to prevent further loss of life or serious injury.

“Smoking materials has been the leading cause of fatal house fires, accounting for a staggering 43% of such deaths over the past 10 years.

“We strongly advise for you to smoke outdoors at your property and to extinguish cigarettes before placing them in a suitable container, such as a metal bin.”

Mr Wright said a majority of the fatal fires started in a bedroom followed by living room and kitchen.

He added: “As we continue to be in the high-risk time of year for house fire, we are asking you to take time to reach out to vulnerable family members, neighbours and friends who may need support to stay safe from fire, especially those who live alone.

“If you have any concerns about this person, you can also complete our online home fire safety check with them, or request an in-person visit.”