The emergency services have launched a new initiative to help protect vulnerable people from house fires in Aberdeen.
The fire service has teamed up with NHS Grampian to target pensioners and others at higher risk of being injured in blazes.
Doctors and nurses, who carry out home visits, have been trained to identify any residents who may be at risk of being caught up in a fire.
The medics can then advise residents about the fire service’s free home fire safety visits, or refer them for a visit directly.
Station manager Gordon Riddel worked with the health board to help set up the initiative.
He said: “Early warning of a fire in the home is absolutely crucial to people getting out unhurt.
“The main purpose of the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is to work in partnership with communities and others in the public, private and third sectors on prevention, protection and response, to improve the safety and wellbeing of people in Scotland.
“Fire can strike in an instant and spread incredibly quickly, with lethal levels of toxic smoke travelling throughout a home in minutes.
“We’re determined to make sure everyone in Aberdeen is protected by appropriate and effective fire detection systems and this partnership means we can provide people who have mobility problems, disabilities or sensory impairment with exactly that.”
The visits take about 20 minutes and involve local crews inspecting residents’ homes and pointing out any hazards they might find.
They also check the property is fitted with working smoke alarms, and will provide them free of charge if necessary.
To arrange a visit call 0800 073 1999, text FIRE to 80800, or visit www.firescotland.gov.uk.
