Household appliances sparking fires 'almost every day'

Scotland experienced a fire sparked by a household appliance almost every day during 2019

A total of 348 fires occurred in Scottish homes over the 12-month period – with the majority resulting from washing machines and tumble dryers.

In all, there were 138 fires caused by tumble dryers, 122 by washing machines, 48 by fridge-freezers and 32 stemming from dishwashers.

Eight fires resulted from washer/dryer appliances. The stark figure is an increase of 21 on 2018’s total.

Assistant chief officer Ross Haggart, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s director of prevention and protection, said: “These new figures show that house fires involving white goods are happening almost every day in Scotland.

“The risk of fire from white goods is one faced by many of us. And while the consequences of fire in the home can be utterly devastating, there are simple but effective steps you can take to significantly reduce risk.

“People can help us do so by not having appliances such as dishwashers, tumble dryers and washing machines running when they out of the house or sleeping.

“I’d also urge people to register their appliances to receive emergency recall notices from manufacturers.

“It’s worth keeping your eyes on product recall information through safety group Electrical Safety First.

“When you are looking for an electrician to work in your home use the Electrical Safety First website to find local competent electricians who are registered members of one of the government approved schemes.”