Alcohol-related fires double in two years (From Ilkley Gazette)

Alcohol-related fires double in two years

11:20am Friday 18th June 2010

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The number of fires where alcohol was a contributing factor has more than doubled across the Bradford district in the space of two years. New figures reveal that alcohol played a part in 47 fires in Bradford during 2009, compared to 36 in 2008 and 20 in 2007.

Now West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service has started a hard-hitting summer safety campaign to ensure Bradford residents enjoy an injury-free World Cup this summer.

With emotions running high now the tournament has kicked off, firefighters are urging people to celebrate safer by avoiding alcohol when cooking – both in the kitchen and on the barbecue – and to take extra care on the roads.

Last year, firefighters dealt with 92 garden fires in Bradford, with the vast majority happening in the summer months. Meanwhile, there were 15 garden fires in Calderdale, 58 in Kirklees and 120 in Leeds, contributing to a total of 314 across West Yorkshire.

Area manager Brian Robson, senior community safety officer for the fire service, said: “This is a very exciting time for the country and we want everyone to have lots of fun.

“However, it’s easy for personal safety to take a back seat when everyone is gripped with football fever and when the alcohol is flowing. We’ve already had one slip-up this tournament – don’t let the next one be yours.”

Mr Robson said people should never mix alcohol with cooking and never leave cooking unattended – both on the hob or on the barbecue.

He urged people not to use water on hot oil because the water causes it to explode into a fireball.

Mr Robson said children should be kept well away from pans and barbecues and added that portable barbecues should be stood on an even surface away from the house, fences and sheds.

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service offers free home fire safety checks, which involve advice and the fitting of free smoke alarms. To book a safety check call 0800 5874536.

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