§ Mr. DarlingTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what proposals he has to mount a publicity campaign emphasising the risks of fire in the home, what can be done to stop such risks and what can be done in the event of fire occurring prior to the arrival of rescue services; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonI very much regret the recent deaths in house fires near Edinburgh.
As part of its work the Scottish Home and Health Department endeavours to alert the public to the risk of fire in the home, through national radio and television campaigns, news releases and the issue of substantial supplies of leaflets and posters to fire brigades to help them in their local publicity campaigns. I understand that, following the recent tragedies, the Lothian and Borders fire brigade has assigned additional officers to its community education unit and is stepping up its efforts to alert the public to fire risks in the home.
Guidance on fire safety in the home is given in two leaflets, copies of which are being placed in the Library. The main fire risks arise from chip pans which are left unattended, cigarettes and other smoking materials which are not properly extinguished, and faulty electrical installations. The risk of fire can be reduced by providing guards for fires, shutting internal doors at night and unplugging inessential electrical appliances. Smoke detectors can help to provide early warning. Children should not be left alone in the house. If a fire does occur, the first priority is to get out, using any available means of escape, and then to call the fire brigade.