County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) have recorded their lowest ever number of accidental house fires since records began.
From April 1st 2024 to March 31st 2025, the Service recorded 180 accidental dwelling fires (ADFs).
This is a 21.05 per cent reduction in the last five years – based on the 2019/2020 figures.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Keith Carruthers, said: “I am extremely proud of every member of the service who played a part in bringing the number of house fires down to their lowest rates on record.
“From education, awareness and prevention to ensuring we have an outstanding emergency response when a house fire does occur.
“We are never complacent about the need for fire safety education with an extensive amount of work being carried out behind the scenes to target those who are at a greater risk through our Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSVs).”
As part of CDDFRS’s fire prevention strategy, crews and members of the Community Safety Team offer free HFSVs to every household in the area.
From April 1st to March 31st, the Service conducted 18,282 HFSVs – checking and installing lifesaving smoke alarms free of charge and giving personalised fire safety advice.
DCFO Carruthers added: “I would like to give a personal thank you from me to our fire crews for carrying out so many visits alongside our Community Safety Team.
“Of course, I would also like to thank the public for being fire safety advocates in their own home by checking their smoke alarms and following our advice to keep themselves and their families as safe as possible.”
Everyone in the County Durham and Darlington area is entitled to a free visit and the free installation of smoke alarms.
The service work with partner agencies to accept formal referrals.
However, no formal referral is needed to access a visit.
DCFO Carruthers added: “Anyone can nominate a loved one or someone, such as a neighbour, that they’re concerned about, or suspect could be living without working smoke alarms
“We can act on your recommendation and arrange for a crew to attend their property and offer a free visit.
“Protecting our community is everyone’s responsibility and by working together, we truly hope that we can help prevent fires and keep everyone in County Durham and Darlington safe.”
To arrange a HFSV for you or refer a neighbour or loved ones, call 0345 223 4221, Monday to Friday 8.30am to 4.30am. Out of hours you can leave a voicemail.
