Chimneys top fire causes in 2024

Chimneys, flues, hot ashes and soot were the leading causes of fires attended by fire brigades in 2024, according to figures published by the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management (NDFEM).

Almost 20,000 fires were recorded nationwide last year across a wide range of settings, from homes and industrial facilities to vehicles, forests, grasslands, ships and even aircraft. Within domestic dwellings, electrical wiring and equipment, as well as cooking and heating appliances, featured prominently as sources of ignition.

The figures show 25 people lost their lives in fires during 2024, 21 of whom were aged 55 or over.

Keith Leonard, national director for fire and emergency management, said the statistics underlined both the importance of fire safety measures and the scale of work carried out by fire brigades.

“My condolences to the families and friends of people who have lost their lives to fires,” he said. “The data provides a useful insight into the top causes of fire and shows the breadth of work carried out by our fire services. I hope that publishing this data will remind all of us of the need for vigilance and the importance of fire prevention.”

Mr Leonard urged households to check chimneys, fit smoke alarms, and prepare escape plans. He also noted that fire incidents were not confined to homes, with businesses, commercial buildings, open land and grassland also featuring among locations attended.

The NDFEM runs a year-round public awareness campaign on fire safety and operates a primary schools programme. Advice on prevention and safety measures is available at fireireland.ie.