IMAGES OF the devastating consequences of fire have been released as part of a drive urging people to get smoke alarms fitted in their homes.
Firefighters said they can install smoke and heat alarms for free and told people not to worry about “bothering” them to ask for the service.
Strathclyde Fire and Rescue said every household should have at least one working alarm, giving people vital life-saving minutes to escape from burning buildings.
Three people in the Strathclyde area lost their lives as a result of fires over the festive period.
In the most recent incident, an elderly woman died following a blaze at a house in Alexandria, West Dunbartonshire, on December 29.
On Christmas Eve a 53-year-old woman died in a house fire in the Tollcross area of Glasgow.
Another person is also known to have died after being injured in a fire in the Strathclyde area a few days before Christmas.
The Strathclyde service said everyone can make a real difference, potentially saving the life of someone they know, by making sure their neighbours and loved ones have a working smoke alarm.
Assistant chief officer Lewis Ramsay, director of community safety, said: “Recent tragedies are a stark reminder of the danger fire poses to every community.
“We have no better ally in the fight against fire than the public and with their help, we can ensure homes are fire-safe.”
He continued: “People are sometimes concerned about bothering the fire service, but we really do want to hear from you.
“We want to stop fires breaking out in the first place and are only interested in helping our communities stay safe.
“If you, or someone you know, doesn’t have a working smoke alarm, I would urge you to fit one immediately or call Strathclyde Fire and Rescue on 08000 731 999.
“We will supply and fit long-life smoke alarms and a heat alarm free of charge.”