Probe Into Scottish Fire Deaths

摘要

Scottish ministers have ordered an urgent inquiry to examine how to reduce deaths and injuries from fire, following the publication of a dramatic increase in fatalities. Deaths from fire in Scotland rose by almost two- thirds in 2007/2008 compared to the previous year, according to figures from the Scottish Chief Inspector of Fire Services. The number of fatalities was 73, an increase of 62% on a total of 45 people for the previous year. Injuries in Scotland also rose, standing at 1547 compared to 1453 previously, a rise of 6%. Three firefighters also died while carrying out their duties. The largest cause of fire in these fatal incidents remains smoking materials, followed by cooking. In 63% of fatal fires in houses, the deceased was living alone and alcohol was a contributory factor in more than 41% of them.