Scottish firefighters back campaign to help vulnerable citizens

Staff and volunteers from Care and Repair Edinburgh have undergone specialist training from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) to assist them in identifying vulnerable members of the community who require additional support in the home.

They can now refer these individuals directly to the SFRS who will, in turn, visit them and address any potential hazards, such as fitting smoke alarms free of charge. The aim is to make Edinburgh’s older and disabled people feel safer in their property’s for as long as possible, contributing to a safer Scotland.

SFRS local senior officer for Edinburgh Kenneth Rogers signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Care and Repair interim chief executive Louise Love further underlining the Service's commitment to the partnership approach.

LSO Rogers explained: “The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is always exploring new and innovative ways to enhance the safety of communities. We’re here to help everyone stay safe but we are particularly keen to support the most vulnerable and elderly.

“I’m delighted that through our partnership with Care and Repair Edinburgh we can share our knowledge, expertise and skills as well as reach those who need us most.

“We don’t want anyone to be harmed in their home and would rather prevent emergency situations from arising in the first place.

"Central to this approach is our free home fire safety Visits where firefighters attend a property and identify any hazards. They also assist in developing an escape plan as well as supply and install smoke detectors free of charge.

"I would again urge everyone to check if their elderly relatives, friends or neighbours are in need of a Home Fire Safety Visit, and to contact us directly.”