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McLeish Hammers Home the Fire Safety Message as Festive TV Advert Campaign Kicks Off
17/12/1998
Heeding the fire safety message this Christmas and New Year could be a matter of life and death, Henry McLeish warned today.
The Home Affairs Minister issued the warning when he kicked off a £40,000 television advertising campaign to highlight the danger of fire over the festive season.
The powerful 10-second ad - which will run from December 18 until Hogmanay - shows a Christmas tree in flames with the sound of tolling bells in the background. The message is clear - "This Christmas, please take care."
More house fires start accidentally at this time of year as many people spend more time at home surrounded with more combustible material, including discarded Christmas wrapping paper.
Mr McLeish said:
"Fire claimed the lives of 87 people in Scotland in 1997-98 - with most of those incidents occurring in the home. That tragic statistic highlights the need for everyone to heed the fire safety message - particularly in the home.
"Following a few common sense precautions can make the difference between safety and tragedy over the festive period. A little extra care can ensure it is a safe and happy time for everyone.
"My message for the festive season is very simple - don't give fire a chance."
Simple precautions, which can reduce the risk of fire dramatically, include:
* Making sure discarded wrapping paper is kept away from heaters and fireplaces;
* Guarding all fires, especially when are children in the house, and being especially vigilant with portable heaters;
* Switching off and unplugging all electrical appliances when they are not being used - remember Christmas tree lights;
* Checking smouldering cigarette ends;
* Closing all doors before going to bed; and
* Checking your smoke alarm.
News Release: 2668/98
17 December, 1998