Scotland’s firefighters are encouraging community members to check on friends, family and vulnerable people who may be struggling with the cost of living and perhaps using new methods to keep warm or cook.

Their 'Make the Call' campaign explains how we can all help stop preventable deaths in house fires, by making a five-minute phone call.

"Make the Call is a hard-hitting appeal to carers, family, friends and of those who are at risk of serious injury or even death because of an accidental fire in their home. 

The latest statistics show that more than 20 people who are over the age of 50, smoke and either have mobility issues, live alone, or use medical oxygen have already been injured, some seriously, by such fires between January 1 and April 30 this year. 

Tragically, 12 of those people sadly passed away. 

SFRS is now appealing to communities across Scotland to help save a life and consider home fire safety when checking in on vulnerable neighbours, patients, friends and family members during and to put them in touch with SFRS wherever possible using the free Home Fire Safety Visit phoneline. 

As part of our commitment to building a safer Scotland we offer everyone in Scotland a free home fire safety visit. We'll help you sort out a fire escape plan and provide information about smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms."

Call: 0800 0731 999

Text FIRE to 80800 from your mobile phone.

Click here for more information.