Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD has launched National Fire Safety Week 2026, urging people across Ireland to take practical steps to prevent fires and protect their families, neighbours and communities.
Running from 12 to 18 October, this year’s North/South campaign adopts the theme “Know the Room, Know the Risk, Know the Person”, highlighting the importance of recognising fire hazards in everyday environments, maintaining working smoke alarms and knowing the nearest emergency exits.
A nationwide advertising campaign begins this week across television, radio and social media, reinforcing key fire safety messages ahead of the higher-risk period for fire fatalities extending from October 2026 into 2027.
The campaign encourages people to assess the risks in the rooms they use every day, from cooking hazards in kitchens to heaters, open fires and electrical appliances in living rooms and bedrooms.
Minister Browne said:
"National Fire Safety Week is about empowering people to protect themselves, their families and their communities. This year’s theme, ‘Know the Room, Know the Risk, Know the Person’, encourages everyone to take a few moments to identify potential fire hazards in the rooms they use every day. Whether at home, at work or in public settings, being aware of risks, ensuring smoke alarms are working properly, and knowing the nearest emergency exits can make all the difference. Fire safety starts with awareness, and those simple actions can help save lives."
Keith Leonard, Director of the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management, highlighted the importance of recognising risks that might otherwise go unnoticed.
He said:
"We want people to take a fresh look at the environments around them and consider the fire risks that might otherwise go unnoticed. From using electrical devices to cooking, many everyday activities can present fire hazards if not managed safely. Knowing the person is just as important as knowing the risk, particularly when it comes to older people, those living alone, or anyone who may need additional support to stay safe from fire. Early detection through working smoke alarms, combined with knowing the safest escape route, is critical to reducing the impact of fire. By understanding the risks in each room and being prepared to respond, everyone can play a role in making our homes and communities safer."
The campaign also highlights the importance of looking out for older people, individuals living alone and others who may need additional support to remain safe from fire.
Marcus Wright, Assistant Chief Fire Officer of the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, said:
“Fire Safety Week is an important reminder that fire safety is a responsibility we all share, not only in our own homes, but in looking out for those around us.
“We’re asking everyone to take a look around their home and think about the risks that may be present in the rooms they spend the most time. Most accidental fires in the home start in the kitchen, while our figures show that the bedroom is where the greatest number of fatalities have occurred.
“We also want people to think about who may be at greater risk from fire. A significant proportion of those who have lost their lives in house fires lived alone. Whether that’s you, a family member, friend or neighbour, recognising that someone may need additional support could help keep them safe.”
People are encouraged to check that smoke alarms are working, ensure escape routes are clear, arrange regular chimney and flue maintenance, and use heaters, electrical appliances and extension leads safely.
The National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management is also promoting the Community Smoke Alarm Scheme, which provides free smoke alarms to vulnerable households. People can contact their local fire service or visit FireIreland.ie for further information.
National Fire Safety Week serves as a reminder that simple preventative measures and greater awareness can help reduce fire risks and save lives.
