Agenda Document Pack - Police and Fire and Rescue Scrutiny Sub-Committee - 13/05/2025

Renfrewshire Council · 13 May 2025
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Page 1

Notice of Meeting and Agenda
Police and Fire and Rescue Scrutiny Sub-Committee
Date Time Venue
Tuesday, 13 May 2025 15:00 Council Chambers (Renfrewshire),
Council Headquarters, Renfrewshire
House, Cotton Street, Paisley, PA1 1AN
Membership
Councillor Marie McGurk (Convener)
Membership of the Sub-committee to comprise 5 members of the Communities and Housing
Policy Board; 3 members from the Administration including the Convener or Depute Convener of
the Policy Board and 2 members from the opposition group or parties.
Meeting Details
The meeting will take place at 3.00pm or at the conclusion of the Communities and Housing
Policy Board, whichever is the later.
Further Information
This is a meeting which is open to members of the public.
A copy of the agenda and reports for this meeting will be available for inspection prior to the
meeting at the Customer Service Centre, Renfrewshire House, Cotton Street, Paisley and online
at http://renfrewshire.cmis.uk.com/renfrewshire/CouncilandBoards.aspx
For further information, please email
democratic-services@renfrewshire.gov.uk
Members of the Press and Public
Members of the press and public wishing to attend the meeting should report to the customer
service centre where they will be met and directed to the meeting.
MARK CONAGHAN
Head of Corporate Governance
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Hybrid Meeting
Please note that this meeting is scheduled to be held in the Council Chambers.  However, it is a
hybrid meeting and arrangements have been made for members to join the meeting remotely
should they wish.
Webcasting of Meeting
This meeting will be filmed for live or subsequent broadcast via the Council’s internet site – at
the start of the meeting the Convener will confirm if all or part of the meeting is being filmed.  To
find the webcast please navigate to
https://renfrewshire.public-i.tv/core/portal/home
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Items of business  
Apologies
Apologies from members.
Declarations of Interest and Transparency Statements
Members are asked to declare an interest or make a transparency
statement in any item(s) on the agenda and to provide a brief
explanation of the nature of the interest or the transparency statement.
1 Police Scotland Spotlight - Hate Crime
Presentation by Police Scotland - Policing Together Division.
2 Police Scotland - Performance Report
Report by Police Scotland.
5 - 14
3 Scottish Fire and Rescue Service - Performance Report
Report by Scottish Fire and Rescue Service.
15 - 30
4 Local Issues
Discussion on local issues.
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OFFICIAL 
OFFICIAL
Renfrewshire
Performance Summary Report
Reporting Period: 01/04/24 - 28/02/25
Total Crime
13,577
Incidents Recorded Overall Dishonesty Domestic Abuse 
Incidents
+0.7% +3.7% +6.7%
+0.1% +1.5% +2.2%
Road Traffic 
Casualties
-2.3%
Sexual Crime
47,063 1,652  3,386 1,906 
1,808 400 142 5,572
Overall Violent Crime
Missing People
872 189
Common Assault
-8.7%
Housebreaking
Disorder Complaints
Unless otherwise stated, all data provided within this report is for the period 1 April 2024 - 28 Febru-
ary 2025, with comparisons made against the same period in the 2023/24 period. All statistics are
provisional and should be treated as management information. All data have been extracted from 
Police Scotland internal systems and are correct as at 23 March 2025.
+2.9%
-2.1%
+52%
Item 2
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2 OFFICIAL 
OFFICIAL
Renfrewshire
Performance Summary Report
Reporting Period: 
1 Apr 2024 to 28 Feb 2025
Introduction 
I am pleased to present this report to the Police Fire and Rescue Committee for its information
and consideration. Please note that all data included in this report are management information
and not official statistics. All data are sourced from Police Scotland internal systems and are 
correct as of date of publication. Unless stated otherwise, numerical comparisons are against the
comparable period in the preceding reporting year. 
Chief Superintendent Rhona Fraser
Renfrewshire & Inverclyde Divisional Commander
SECTION PAGE NUMBER 
Introduction 2 
Executive Summary 3
Demand Analysis 4
Antisocial Behaviour, Violence & Disorder 5
Protecting Vulnerable People 6
Acquisitive Crime  7
Cyber and Digital Crime 7
Road Safety and Road Crime 8
Public Confidence - Complaints & Allegations 9
Recent Initiatives and Results 10
Forthcoming Initiatives 10
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PRIORITY EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 
Violent crime in Renfrewshire remained stable, with a slight rise overall
but a notable 7% drop in serious violence. Weapons offences rose by
31.6%, though detections improved through proactive policing. Antisocial
behaviour and vandalism declined, but wilful fireraising increased, often
linked to youth disorder. Hate crime detection stood at 65.7%, with race
the most targeted characteristic. Police continue multi-agency efforts to
address violence, disorder, and community safety. 
Sexual crime rose slightly, with a sharp increase in cyber-enabled non-contact 
offences. Missing person reports surged due to improved recording. Domestic
abuse incidents rose, with improved detection. Drug deaths remain a concern, with
cocaine now most commonly implicated. 
Crimes of dishonesty rose by 3.7% in Renfrewshire, driven largely by a
26% increase in shoplifting. Excluding shoplifting, dishonesty crimes fell
nearly 7%, with notable reductions in fraud and housebreaking. 
Detection rates surpassed the national average. Cyber-enabled fraud
and sextortion remain key concerns, with ongoing multi-agency efforts to
prevent online harm. Public awareness campaigns continue to address
evolving financial and cybercrime threats. 
Renfrewshire recorded 142 road casualties, including nine fatalities and
fewer serious injuries, notably among children. Police Scotland remains
committed to road safety through enforcement, education, and partner-
ship work, including local speed checks and national campaigns. Road
traffic offences fell slightly, driven by reductions in speeding and mobile
phone use, though careless driving and vehicle defect offences rose. The
detection rate remains high at 86%, close to the national average. 
RENFREWSHIRE POLICING PRIORITIES 2023 - 2026
POLICE SCOTLAND’S POLICING PRIORITIES 2023 - 2026
Protecting vulnerable people
Renfrewshire & Inverclyde Division continues to
support a multi-agency approach to reduce
drug deaths, to engage with Scottish 
Government and stakeholders to influence 
approaches to supporting individuals with 
complex mental health needs, and to work in
partnership to develop local effective and 
efficient pathways to support vulnerable 
people.
Working with communities
The Division continues to support this Police
Scotland priority and to develop strategic 
partnerships to find synergy in policy making
and shared resources. Police in Renfrewshire
recognise the importance of engaging with
communities to understand their needs, and
strive to support innovation in local partnership
settings. 
Tackling crime in the digital age
Police in Renfrewshire continue to benefit from
the support of specialised Police Scotland units
such as the Cybercrime Unit and the Economic
Crime and Financial Investigation Unit,
amongst others. There are continued efforts to
ensure our Officers have the training, resources
and equipment needed to tackle the threat 
arising from cyber related criminality and 
technological advancement. Police in 
Renfrewshire continue to receive support from
the Online Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation
Unit (part of the national Specialist Crime 
Division) in relation to the investigation and 
prevention of online sexual crimes targeting
children. 
Support for operational policing
Renfrewshire Police continue to link in closely
with Police Scotland’s Corporate Services who
enable and support operational resources to
deliver against the strategic priorities and their
outcomes. 
As part of the Digitally-Enabled Policing 
Programme, migration to new national Core 
Operational Systems has led to increased 
efficiency and deployability of local Police 
Officers, allowing them to more effectively
serve Renfrewshire’s communities.
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DEMAND ANALYSIS PYTD - PREVIOUS YEAR TO DATE CYTD - CURRENT YEAR TO DATE
CRIME PYTD CYTD INCIDENTS PYTD CYTD
Total Crimes &
Offences 14,440 14,893 Total number of
incidents 49,497 52,181
Crimes and Offences
Broadly similar to the rise noted at the national level (+0.7%), the number of recorded crimes
and offences in Renfrewshire has increased by 2.9% on figures recorded in the same period
in 2023/24, with a total of 13,577 crimes and offences in the reporting period. An increase has
been recorded across various crime groups, with the largest percentage rise relating to Group
6 (antisocial offences including breach of the peace and threatening and abusive behaviour),
which rose 12.2% on the previous year. Meanwhile, Group 2 sexual crimes (e.g.
communicating indecently, sexual assault, rape) increased by 1.5%; Group 3 crimes of
dishonesty (e.g. theft by shoplifting, housebreaking and fraud) rose by 3.7%; and Group 5
(crimes against society, including drugs and weapons possession, and bail offences)
increased by 10.7%. Conversely, Group 1 crimes of non-sexual violence (including common
and serious assault, robbery and threats and extortion) fell by 0.6%; Group 4 crimes of
damage and reckless behaviour (e.g. wilful fireraising, vandalism) dropped by 5.6%; Group 7
miscellaneous offences (e.g. environmental offences, licensing offences) decreased by 3.4%,
and Group 8 road traffic offences (e.g. speeding, driving carelessly, mobile phone offences)
fell by 0.3%. The detection rate for all crimes and offences stands at 66.9%, above the
detection rate for the same period in 2023/24 (63.2%) and also national detection rate for the
same reporting period (66.2%).
Police Incidents
Contrasting with the rise in recorded crime in Renfrewshire, the total number of Police
incidents have fallen by 2.1% percent on the previous year, with a total of 47,063 recorded.
However, when incidents relating to abandoned/silent 999 calls (which have fallen by 31% on
2023/24 figures, due to the rollout of smartphone software updates to reduce the incidence of
accidental 999 calls) are discounted from the year-on-year comparison, an increase of
approximately three percent continues to be noted in respect of the number of recorded
Police incidents. There are continued indications of a growing and evolving demand on Police
in Renfrewshire. An increase has been noted in various incident types including road traffic
matters and collisions, assist member of the public, theft, missing person/absconder incidents,
domestic incidents and external agency requests. We continue to work closely with partner
agencies to ensure the implementation of the most appropriate and proportionate response to
identified issues.
CRIME PYTD CYTD INCIDENTS PYTD CYTD
Total Crimes &
Offences 13,194 13,577 Total number of
incidents 48,091 47,063
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VIOLENCE, ANTISOCIAL BEHAVIOUR AND DISORDER
Violence
Recorded violent crimes in Renfrewshire increased by 0.1% compared to the previous year,
totalling 1,808 crimes, with the majority (over 91%) of recorded crimes of violence being
common assault (including against emergency workers). Almost 70% of these involved
assault to no injury to victims. Meanwhile, crimes of serious violence (including serious
assault, robbery, attempted murder and murder) collectively fell by almost seven percent on
the previous year, with 11 fewer victims. While Paisley North West continues to be the
multi-member ward in which the highest number of recorded crimes of violence occur, contin-
ued multi-agency collaboration focused on reducing violence and disorder, has contributed to
a decrease of over seven percent in recorded violence in this area.
Weapons Offences
A total of 379 offensive / bladed weapons offences were recorded in Renfrewshire during the
reporting period, marking a 31.6% increase on the previous year. The detection rate for
weapon-related crimes rose from 79.8% to 83.1%, with a proactive approach to tackling the
issue of weapon-carrying leading to a 39% increase in the number of detections for these
crimes. Police in Renfrewshire continue to work with partners to educate young people about
the risks and consequences of carrying weapons, as well as to divert them away from criminal
activity.
Disorder and Antisocial Behaviour (ASB)
Recorded crimes of damage and reckless conduct in Renfrewshire fell by 5.6% compared to
the previous year, with vandalism seeing a reduction of nearly nine percent. However, crimes
of wilful fireraising have increased by nearly 26%, with 117 crimes (+24 on 2023/24 figures).
However, the detection rate improved significantly, rising from 19.4% last year to 45.3% in the
current reporting period. A significant proportion (approximately one-third) of wilful fireraising
crimes in the reporting period involved wheelie bins being set alight, with these crimes usually
being linked to youth disorder. Public-reported incidents of ASB and disorder dropped by
2.3%, with 5,572 incidents recorded. Police in Renfrewshire continue to engage in a multi-
agency response to ASB, building on the proactive work carried out through the Partnership
Hub and ensuring effective plans are in place to address community risks in Renfrewshire.
Hate Crime
During the reporting period, 362 hate crimes were recorded in Renfrewshire, with a detection
rate of 65.7% for these crimes. Race continues to be the most commonly targeted protected
characteristic, featuring in 57% of recorded hate crimes in Renfrewshire. Threatening and
abusive behaviour and hate aggravated conduct (including stirring up hatred) feature as the
most commonly reported hate crimes. Other reported hate crimes include offences such as
common assault, vandalism, domestic abuse offences and breach of the peace. At least 18%
of victims of hate crimes in Renfrewshire were Police Officers.
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Sexual Crime
400 sexual crimes have been recorded in Renfrewshire in the reporting period - an increase of 1.5% on the
previous year’s total of 394 crimes. While contact offences fell by approximately 19%, non-contact offences
increased by nearly 32% - with many of these being cyber-enabled sexual offences such as indecent
communications or sending indecent images. Almost a third of sexual crimes recorded in Renfrewshire
involved non-recent reporting, with specific challenges associated with the investigation and detection
of such crimes, due to the passage of time and resulting loss of various forensic opportunities. The
detection rate was 56.5%, compared to the national rate of 57.5%.
Missing People
In the reporting period, a total of 872 missing person reports were recorded - an increase of 58% on the
same period in 2023/24, in which 553 missing person reports were received. In the current reporting period,
a total of 326 individuals were reported missing - with 101 of these individuals being repeat missing people
(i.e. being reported missing on multiple occasions). 87% of missing persons reports related to young people,
with nearly half of all reports involving young people going missing from Children’s Homes. It should be
noted that a significant contributory factor for the increase is the National Missing Persons Unit’s
implementation of national business rules relating to how these incidents are recorded and when forms must
be raised, which have helped establish an accurate reflection of the number of missing people and the
resulting demand of these incidents on frontline officers. We continue to engage with appropriate partners to
safeguard and reduce threat risk and harm to our most vulnerable people, especially when they go missing.
Domestic Abuse
Domestic abuse incidents in Renfrewshire rose by 6.7% compared to the previous year, totalling 1,906
incidents. Though this increase may be partially attributable to continuous efforts to increase victims’
confidence to report domestic abuse to Police and our partners, changes in reporting standards and new
systems should also be considered when comparing figures. Of these incidents, 43.1% led to a recorded
crime, with domestic abuse-related crimes rising by 0.7% to 822. The detection rate has increased
considerably, rising from 58.6% to 71.1%. The MATAC (Multi-Agency Tasking and Coordination) and
MARAC (Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences) frameworks remain vital in safeguarding victims,
providing tailored support, coordinating partnerships, and ensuring agency accountability. We will continue
to work together with our partners to ensure that victim centred approach adopting the most suitable support
to victims and families.
Drug Related Deaths
In the reporting period, Renfrewshire saw nine suspected and 19 confirmed drug-related deaths. Although
drug harm occurs throughout the local authority area, the most significant clusters were located in Paisley
Central and Renfrew West, with four drug-implicated deaths occurring in each of these multi-member ward
areas. Cocaine continues to feature increasingly commonly in toxicology results, overtaking other controlled
substances such as etizolam and heroin to become the most commonly implicated in drug deaths. Local
officers have been conducting proactive initiatives and intensification days, while also collaborating with the
Renfrewshire Alcohol and Drug Partnership (ADP) to provide support, guidance, and resources aimed at
reducing drug-related harm.
PROTECTING VULNERABLE PEOPLE
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ACQUISITIVE CRIME
A total of 3,386 crimes of dishonesty were recorded - an increase of 3.7% on the previous
year. The detection rate for acquisitive crimes in Renfrewshire was 37%, exceeding the
national rate of 35.3%. Shoplifting continues to have a disproportionate impact overall on
acquisitive crime figures, accounting for almost 40% of all recorded crimes of dishonesty, and
rising by almost 26% on the previous year’s figures. Excluding this type of crime, crimes of
dishonesty have otherwise fallen by nearly seven percent, with crimes of housebreaking falling
by 8.7%, recorded fraud crimes falling by 11.3%, and common theft decreasing by 4.2%.
Problem-solving initiatives are also underway in collaboration with our new Retail Crime Task
Force which has been set up to address a rise in offences, such as shoplifting. This dedicated
unit will support our officers in Renfrewshire in delivering prevention activities and on a daily
basis the Taskforce will target repeat offenders of retail crime by using data and intelligence to
carry out proactive enforcement activities in areas most heavily impacted.
While fraud remains a key concern due to evolving tactics used by criminals both online and
offline, recorded fraud crimes continue to fall as compared to previous figures, with a drop of
over 11%. In Renfrewshire, consumer and retail fraud and banking/credit industry fraud
constitute a significant proportion of recorded fraud crime, with other fraud methods in the
reporting period including advance fee payment frauds and bogus/doorstep crime. Police in
Renfrewshire continue to engage with the community to raise awareness of emerging fraud
methods and provide practical advice to help individuals protect themselves from financial
harm.
CYBER & DIGITAL CRIME
Cyber-enabled crime remains a significant concern for communities in Renfrewshire. Fraud
continues to be the most commonly recorded cyber-enabled in Renfrewshire in terms of num-
ber of reports received, with 39% of all recorded frauds being perpetrated online. We continue
to address this issue through local partnerships and national collaboration with the Cyber Scot-
land Partnership and the financial sector to raise awareness of online fraud.
Threats and extortion are another key cyber-threat in Renfrewshire, with the majority (71%) of
recorded extortion crimes being cyber-enabled sextortion crimes. These crimes are a form of
online blackmail where offenders manipulate victims into sharing intimate images or videos,
and then threaten to expose them unless further images, videos, or money are provided.
Offenders (who are commonly located outwith the UK) build trust through social media or
messaging platforms before making demands - often resulting in serious emotional and
financial consequences for victims.
Sexual offences also constitute a significant proportion of cybercrimes, with specific crimes
such as communicating indecently, causing to view sexual activity or images, indecent photos
of children and threats to disclose intimate images all commonly possessing a cybercrime as-
pect. To combat online child sexual abuse and exploitation, we engage with specialist national
units and a range of partner agencies to promote preventative awareness.
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ROAD SAFETY AND ROAD CRIME
Road Traffic Casualties 2023/24 2024/25
Number of persons killed on our roads 1 9
Number of persons seriously injured 55 45
Number of persons slightly injured 83 88
Number of children seriously injured 6 5
Road Traffic Data from 01/04/2024 to 28/02/2025
Road Casualties
In the reporting period, there were 142 road casualties in Renfrewshire, an increase of three
compared to the previous year. This includes eight additional road fatalities (n=9) and five
additional slight road injuries (n=88). However, ten fewer serious road injuries occurred (n=45),
including a reduction in serious child road injuries. Police Scotland remains committed to
reducing road casualties through ongoing enforcement and education efforts. The dedicated
Road Policing Unit (RPU) from Police Scotland’s Operational Support Division continues to
support local policing through a range of road safety and crime prevention campaigns. Police in
Renfrewshire also undertake speed checks in areas based on information received from mem-
bers of the public and elected members relating to problem locations for speeding and danger-
ous driving. Officers will continue their focus along with the RPU, local partners, and communi-
ties to enhance road safety with efforts being coordinated through our established Road Safety
Group.
Road Traffic Offences
Recorded road traffic offences in Renfrewshire have fallen by 0.3% on 2023/24 figures, totalling
2,973 in the reporting period. Conversely, at a national level these offences increased by just
over two percent. The drop in Renfrewshire has been driven by a decrease in speeding
offences (-38%), mobile phone offences (-12.2%) and drivers’ neglect of traffic directions
(-4.6%). Meanwhile, moderate increases have been observed in respect of careless driving
offences (+10.4%), driving under the influence (+11.9%) and vehicle defect offences (+19.8%).
The detection rate for these offences is 86%, which remains closely comparable to the previous
year’s rate (86.4%) and the national rate (87.5%).
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PUBLIC CONFIDENCE: COMPLAINTS & USER SATISFACTION 
YOUR POLICE 
84.8% of respondents to the ‘Your Police’ survey reported that they felt very or fairly safe in
their local area, while 42.2% of those who completed the survey stated that their concern
about crime had increased in the last 12 months. 45.3% agreed, or strongly agreed that they
had confidence in the police in their local area, while 36.4% of respondents felt that Police
were doing a good job in the local area. In Renfrewshire, the proportion of positive responses
were closely aligned with or exceeded comparable national figures for the reporting period. 
Recent community feedback highlights a range of public safety concerns, with a strong focus
on visibility, deterrence, and enforcement. Many residents raised ongoing issues around road
safety, with specific concerns around dangerous driving, speeding, and antisocial use of 
vehicles such as unregistered motorcycles. Youth-related antisocial behaviour was also a 
recurring theme of concern, including groups congregating in public areas, vandalism, noise,
and instances of intimidating or threatening behaviour. Specific references were made to 
behaviour around schools, bus stops, and town centres, as well as damage to public transport
infrastructure. Residents have also expressed concern about drug-related activity, including
visible street-level dealing, with many expressing support for more localised enforcement and
disruption activity. Additional concerns include fly tipping, littering, noise disturbances, and
concerns relating to environmental maintenance, such as overgrown trees obstructing signage
and walkways, with some perceiving these issues as contributing to reduced safety in local
neighbourhoods. Community feedback strongly reflects a desire for more localised and visible
policing, with residents consistently expressing that a greater presence in neighbourhoods
would enhance feelings of safety and community reassurance - highlight how much value the
public places on having officers actively present and engaged in their daily environments. 
COMPLAINTS
A total of 153 complaint cases and 246 
allegations have been received in 
Renfrewshire in the period April 2024 to
December 2024. Total complaint cases
have fallen by nearly 22% compared to the
previous year, while the number of 
allegations have decreased by almost
14%. 182 allegations were ‘On Duty’ with a
further 62 relating to quality of service. The
largest proportion of allegations related to
irregularity in procedure.
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LOCAL POLICING PRIORITY OUTCOMES – CASE STUDIES
McGills Buses – Action Plan
The McGills Buses action plan continued to run effectively in the recent period, with a combina-
tion of high visibility and plain clothes patrols. Regular engagement with management has been
maintained, and a Local Problem Solving Team (LPST) officer has taken ownership of the
enquiries. As a result, 10 individuals have been charged and reported for various offences
related to disorder, including antisocial behaviour (ASB) and vandalism, in response to the rise
of these issues on buses.
Violence – PPT Focus
A continued focus on violence and weapon carrying across Renfrewshire has been driven by
the Priority Policing Team (PPT). Key activities included targeted patrols, enforcement actions,
and community engagement efforts. Specific days of action have been conducted to target
violent wanted nominals and to disrupt drug packages, contributing to the ongoing reduction in
violence and weapon-related offences in the area.
Acquisitive Crime – Retail Crime Initiative
The Retail Crime Initiative has been actively targeting hotspot areas such as Phoenix Retail
Park and Renfrew Road Retail Park. This initiative involves the deployment of dedicated
resources, direct engagement with retail staff, and collaboration with security teams to address
and prevent retail crime. Disruption of known nominals continues as part of the strategy to
reduce acquisitive crime in these areas.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Efforts to strengthen key partnerships are continuing, with ongoing return discussions with local
authorities and collaborative initiatives aimed at improving local safety. Renfrewshire Police
have supported nation-wide events running from February to April, covering important themes
such as cybercrime, fuel theft, and equality-focused awareness campaigns.
FORTHCOMING INITIATIVES
Preventions Inputs
Upcoming engagements will focus on raising awareness around cybercrime and internet safety
through presentations across multiple schools in Renfrewshire. These sessions will also include
topics such as equality, diversity, and inclusion (E&DI), adult protection, and antisocial
behaviour (ASB), ensuring a broad approach to community education and safety. Additional
business includes enhanced signposting for officers and social workers, financial harm
prevention discussions, and continued efforts on fraud and theft prevention.
Road Safety and Road Crime
Police in Renfrewshire, assisted by specialist Road Policing Officers, will continue to support
and promote national road safety campaigns in the forthcoming period, including the 2 Wheels
Campaign in June, Summer Drink Drug Drive campaign (June - July) and the Drug Driving
Week campaign in August.
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2024-25 Q4 
All 
Renfrewshire 
Scrutiny Report
2024-25 Q4
Renfrewshire
Item 3
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1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
Summary
Trends
Accidental Dwelling Fires (ADFs)
Accidental Dwelling Fire Casualties
Non-Fire Casualties
Deliberate Fires
Non-Domestic Fires
Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals (UFAS)
Road Traffic Collisions (RTCs)
Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSVs)
Fire Safety Enforcement
Community Safety & Engagement
Glossary of Terms
Contents
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About the statistics within this report
The activity totals and other statistics quoted within this report are published in the interests of
transparency and openness. They are provisional in nature and subject to change as a result of ongoing
quality assurance and review. Because all statistics quoted are provisional there may be a difference in
the period totals quoted in our reports after local publication which result from revisions or additions to the
data in our systems. The Scottish Government publishes official statistics each year which allow for
comparisons to be made over longer periods of time.
202522/04/25 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Scrutiny Report
2024-25 Q4
Renfrewshire
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1. Summary
172
Fires
157 268
False Alarms
597
19 2 0
Fire Fatalities
14 5
94
UFAS
202522/04/25 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Non-Fire Incidents
People Rescued by
Firefighters
People Receiving
First Aid or Hospital
Treatment (Non-Fire)
People Receiving
First Aid or Hospital
Treatment (Fires)
Non-Fire Fatalities
Top 10 Incident Types
False Alarm
(Due to
Apparatus)
Fire
(Outdoor)
False Alarm
(UFAS)
False Alarm
(Good Intent)
Fire (Building) Inter-Agency Other
Non-Fire
Flooding /
Water
Rescue
Humanitarian Fire (Vehicle)
111 101
94
56
51 49
28 26
21 20
2024-25 Q4
40
Fire Safety Audits
104
Home Fire Safety Visits
Total Incidents
(Incl. Incompletes)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Below Highlights an increase or decrease from the same reporting period as last year.
Total Incidents: Increased from 526 to 597 — a 13% increase.
Fires: Increased from 149 to 172 — a 15% increase. 
Non-Fire Incidents: Increased from 132 to 157 — an 18% increase.
False Alarms: Increased from 245 to 268 — a 9% increase.
Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals (UFAS): Decreased from 108 to 94 — a 12% decrease.
Rescues by Firefighters: Decreased from 26 to 19 — a 26% decrease.
Fire-Related Hospital Treatments: Decreased from 5 to 2 — a 60% decrease.
Fire Fatalities: Unchanged at 0
First Aid / Hospital Treatment (all incidents): Decreased from 22 to 14 — a 36% decrease.             
Non-Fire Fatalities: Increased from 3 to 5 — a 66% increase.
Home Fire Safety Visits: Decreased from 275 to 104 — a 62% decrease.
Fire Safety Audits: Increased slightly from 37 to 40 — an 8% increase.
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2. Trends
202522/04/25 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Accidental Dwelling Fires
2021-22
Q1
2021-22
Q2
2021-22
Q3
2021-22
Q4
2022-23
Q1
2022-23
Q2
2022-23
Q3
2022-23
Q4
2023-24
Q1
2023-24
Q2
2023-24
Q3
2023-24
Q4
2024-25
Q1
2024-25
Q2
2024-25
Q3
2024-25
Q4
49
32
15
47
24
38
32
41
32
36 35 36 36 36
32
43
Deliberate Fires
2021-22
Q1
2021-22
Q2
2021-22
Q3
2021-22
Q4
2022-23
Q1
2022-23
Q2
2022-23
Q3
2022-23
Q4
2023-24
Q1
2023-24
Q2
2023-24
Q3
2023-24
Q4
2024-25
Q1
2024-25
Q2
2024-25
Q3
2024-25
Q4
242
96
82
98
218 163
86
135
98
117
153
131 136
107
138 123
Non-Domestic Fires
2021-22
Q1
2021-22
Q2
2021-22
Q3
2021-22
Q4
2022-23
Q1
2022-23
Q2
2022-23
Q3
2022-23
Q4
2023-24
Q1
2023-24
Q2
2023-24
Q3
2023-24
Q4
2024-25
Q1
2024-25
Q2
2024-25
Q3
2024-25
Q4
10 9
20
7
8
17
8
9
8
1111
11
10 109
13
Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals
2021-22
Q1
2021-22
Q2
2021-22
Q3
2021-22
Q4
2022-23
Q1
2022-23
Q2
2022-23
Q3
2022-23
Q4
2023-24
Q1
2023-24
Q2
2023-24
Q3
2023-24
Q4
2024-25
Q1
2024-25
Q2
2024-25
Q3
2024-25
Q4
207
94
318
100
228
283
123118
245
108
253 262 284
102
268
112
Road Traffic Collisions
2021-22
Q1
2021-22
Q2
2021-22
Q3
2021-22
Q4
2022-23
Q1
2022-23
Q2
2022-23
Q3
2022-23
Q4
2023-24
Q1
2023-24
Q2
2023-24
Q3
2023-24
Q4
2024-25
Q1
2024-25
Q2
2024-25
Q3
2024-25
Q4
14
11
23
9
23
14
18
15 15
18 18
15 1515
18 19
Previous 16 quarters (4 years)
Page 18 of 30

Page 19

3. Accidental Dwelling Fires
Extent of Damage Incidents

Not applicable 19
Limited to item 1st ignited 8
Limited to room of origin 5
202522/04/25 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Source of Ignition (Top 10)
Cooking appliance Electricity supply Not known Other domestic
style appliance
Fuel/chemical
related
Matches and
candles
Smoking Related
22
3 2 2 1 1 1
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
20
30
40
50
32
Accidental Dwelling Fires
in this period
2024-25 Q4
Incidents by Ward
Paisley Northwest
Johnstone South & Elderslie
Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, Howwood & …
Houston, Crosslee & Linwood
Renfrew North & Braehead
Renfrew South & Gallowhill
Paisley Northeast & Ralston
Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langbank
Paisley East & Central
Paisley Southwest
9
5
4
3
3
3
2
1
1
1
· Total Incidents: 32 — a 6.6% increase compared to the same period last year.
· No Firefighting Action Needed: 21 of 32 incidents.
· Cause by Age Group:
o Adults aged 18–64: 18 incidents
o Adults aged 65+: 6 incidents
o Unknown: 8 incidents
· Smoke Detection: 26 of 32 properties had alarms installed.
· Operational crews and the Community Action Team continue to provide Home Fire Safety Visits and install detection systems where required.
Page 19 of 30

Page 20

4. Accidental Dwelling Fire Casualties
Non-Fatal
Casualties
1
Fatal
Casualties
0
Nature of Injury/Cause of
Death
Casualties

Overcome by gas, smoke or toxic
fumes; asphyxiation
1
202522/04/25 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Casualties by Ward
Paisley Northwest 1
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
0
5
10
15
20
2
People
Rescued by
Firefighters
Extent of Harm
(Non-Fatal)
1 0
First Aid Given
at Scene
Hospital Slight
Injuries
0
Hospital Serious
Injuries
2024-25 Q4
·
·
·
Casualties: Reduced from 5 to 1 — a significant decrease from the same period last year. 
Nature of Injury: The single casualty received oxygen therapy on scene for minor smoke inhalation. 
Quarter-on-Quarter: A 50% decrease compared to Q3.
Page 20 of 30

Page 21

5. Non-Fire Casualties
202522/04/25 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Casualties by Ward
Paisley Northwest
Paisley Southwest
Renfrew North & Braehead
Erskine & Inchinnan
Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, How…
Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langb…
Houston, Crosslee & Linwood
Paisley East & Central
Paisley Northeast & Ralston
5
3
3
2
2
1
1
1
1
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
10
20
30
Non-Fatal
Casualties
14
Fatal
Casualties
5 17
People
Rescued by
Firefighters
Extent of Harm
(Non-Fatal)
3 9
First Aid Given
at Scene
Hospital Slight
Injuries
2
Hospital Serious
Injuries
Nature of Injury/Cause of Death Casualties

Cuts/Lacerations 3
Head injury 2
Not known 2
Other 2
Other physical injury 2
Back / Neck injury (spinal) 1
Breathing difficulties (Other than
'Overcome by gas, smoke or toxic
fumes, asphyxiation')
1
Bruising 1
Chest / Abdominal injury 1
Chest pain / Heart condition / Cardiac
arrest
1
Collapse 1
Fracture 1
Other medical condition 1
2024-25 Q4
Non-Fatal Casualties:
·    Decreased from 22 to 14 for the same period last year.
·   9 were related to Road Traffic Collisions (RTCs).
·   were in support of other agencies.
Fatalities Breakdown:
·  2 incidents involved agency assistance (including Gas Network, Police Scotland, and Network Rail).
·  2 incidents involved welfare concerns/effecting entry.
·  1 incident was classified as a suicide.
Page 21 of 30

Page 22

6. Deliberate Fires
Property Type Incident

Refuse 46
Grassland, woodland and crops 22
Other outdoors (including land) 9
Dwelling 6
Outdoor structures 6
Non Residential 3
Road Vehicle 3
Other Residential 1
Hour of Day
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
202522/04/25 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Incidents by Ward
Johnstone South & Elderslie
Paisley Southwest
Paisley Northwest
Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, Howwood & …
Paisley Southeast
Paisley Northeast & Ralston
Renfrew South & Gallowhill
Houston, Crosslee & Linwood
Paisley East & Central
Renfrew North & Braehead
Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langbank
Erskine & Inchinnan
22
19
11
8
8
6
6
5
5
4
1
1
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
50
100
150
200
250
96
Deliberate Fires
in this period
2024-25 Q4
·
·
·
Deliberate Fire Setting: Up by 10% from the same period last year and 2% from
Q3.
Secondary Fires: Of the 96 incidents, 77 accounted for deliberate secondary fires  
Peak Time: Most occurred around 7 PM.
Page 22 of 30

Page 23

7. Non-Domestic Fires
Top 15 Property Types
Property Type Incidents

Hospitals and medical care 2
Boarding House/B&B for
homeless/asylum seekers
1
Boarding School accommodation 1
Entertainment and culture 1
Food and Drink 1
Industrial Manufacturing 1
Other buildings/use not known 1
Retail 1
6 (66.7%)
(33.3%)
3
Accidental
Deliberate
202522/04/25 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Incidents by Ward
Paisley Northwest
Paisley East & Central
Renfrew North & Braehead
Paisley Southeast
4
2
2
1
Extent of Damage
Not applicable Limited to item 1st
ignited
Limited to room of
origin
External roof only
4
2 2
1
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
10
15
20
9
Non-Domestic
Fires in this
period
2024-25 Q4
·  Decrease of 10% from the same period last year.
·  No Intervention Required: 6 out of 9 incidents.
·  The Fire Safety Enforcement Team continues proactive engagement with businesses to uphold fire safety standards.
Page 23 of 30

Page 24

8. Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals
Top 15 Property Types
Property Type Incidents

Residential Home 39
Hospitals and medical care 21
Sheltered Housing - not self contained 12
Hotel/motel 7
Student Hall of Residence 3
Education 2
Hostel (e.g. for homeless people) 2
Warehouses and bulk storage 2
Boarding House/B&B other 1
Industrial Manufacturing 1
Offices and call centres 1
Other Residential Home 1
Public admin, security and safety 1
Youth hostel 1
202522/04/25 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Incidents by Ward
Paisley Northwest
Paisley Southeast
Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langbank
Renfrew North & Braehead
Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, Howwoo…
Johnstone South & Elderslie
Renfrew South & Gallowhill
Paisley East & Central
Paisley Northeast & Ralston
Erskine & Inchinnan
Houston, Crosslee & Linwood
27
12
11
9
7
7
7
4
4
3
3
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
100
200
300
94
Unwanted Fire Alarm
Signals in this period
2024-25 Q4
ꞏ Reduction: From 108 to 94 — a 13% decrease from the same period last year.
ꞏ  Common Causes: Predominantly human error or accidental activations.
ꞏ  Policy Impact: Since the July 2023 UFAS policy implementation, incidents continue to decline.
ꞏ  Highest Impacted Premises: Residential care and nursing homes.
ꞏ  Policy Reminder: SFRS now only attends non-sleeping premises for confirmed fire indications; sleeping premises like hospitals   
remain unaffected.
Page 24 of 30

Page 25

9. Road Traffic Collisions
202522/04/25 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Incidents by Ward
Paisley Northwest
Renfrew South & Gallowhill
Erskine & Inchinnan
Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, Howwood & …
Renfrew North & Braehead
Paisley Northeast & Ralston
4
3
2
2
2
1
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
10
15
20
25
30
14
Road Traffic
Collisions in
this period
Non-Fatal
Casualties
9
Fatal
Casualties
0 4
People
Rescued by
Firefighters
Extent of Harm
(Non-Fatal)
1 7
First Aid Given
at Scene
Hospital Slight
Injuries
1
Hospital Serious
Injuries
Property Type Incidents

Car 11
House - single occupancy 1
Multiple Vehicles 1
Van 1
2024-25 Q4
Incident Type Incidents

Vehicle (Non-fire) 11
Fire (Vehicle) 1
Humanitarian 1
Other Non-Fire 1
·  Incidents: Decreased by 33% from the same period last year.
Page 25 of 30

Page 26

10. Home Fire Safety Visits
202522/04/25 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
11. Fire Safety Enforcement
Job Type Count

Audit 40
Specific Visit 1
Audits by Ward
Paisley East & Central
Paisley Northwest
Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, Howwood & Loch…
Johnstone South & Elderslie
Erskine & Inchinnan
Houston, Crosslee & Linwood
Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langbank
Paisley Northeast & Ralston
Paisley Southeast
Renfrew North & Braehead
Renfrew South & Gallowhill
10
8
5
5
3
3
2
1
1
1
1
2024-25 Q4
HFSVs by Ward
Renfrew North & Braehead
Renfrew South & Gallowhill
Johnstone South & Elderslie
Paisley Northwest
Paisley Southeast
Houston, Crosslee & Linwood
Erskine & Inchinnan
Johnstone North, Kilbarchan, Howwood & Loch…
Paisley Southwest
Paisley East & Central
Bishopton, Bridge of Weir & Langbank
Paisley Northeast & Ralston
17
12
10
10
10
9
8
8
8
6
4
2
Home Fire
Safety Visits
104
High Risk
HFSVs
42
Partner Referral
HFSVs
43
Page 26 of 30

Page 27

12. Community Safety & Engagement
202522/04/25 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
2024-25 Q4
MUTHU Update
The FSE team in partnership with Renfrewshire Council Building Standards, Renfrewshire Council Environmental health and the
Health and Safety Executive issued a prohibition notice on the MUTHU hotel following on site meetings. The fire safety
enforcement team will continue to follow up with all partners and duty holders and a full fire safety audit will be carried out prior to
the venue opening to public. The venue opening date will be dependent on compliance with fire safety legislation and the
prohibition notice being lifted.
HFSV
In January the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service revised its Home Fire Safety Visit (HFSV) programme. We communicated the
changes to senior representatives and partners across Renfrewshire, inviting them to become one of our valued HFSV partners in the
new programme. The process is relatively straightforward and to assist with the transition, our Community Action Team arranged a
series of information sessions in January, these sessions provided our partners with an overview of the new system, how to sign up
to make referrals and afford the opportunity to ask any questions.
Signing up to be a HFSV partner requires both parties to understand their specific roles in protecting the data and information that
we will have to pass to make and/or receive referrals. This involves the signing of a Data Sharing Framework, which clearly defines
the details of the agreement which must be adhered to as per information governance and data protection laws.
The new HFSV programme was launched at the end of January 2025 and is progressing well, however, it is important to note that as
we are no longer carrying out HFSVs to low-risk householders and this will impact on the total number of visits carried out across
Renfrewshire compared to previous years. Where householders do not meet the criteria SFRS will offer bespoke advice based on
their level of risk within their household. HFSVs will continue to be a key method for SFRS to meet its statutory duties of providing
fire safety advice and information.
Renfrewshire Community Safety and Engagement Summary
During this reporting period, Renfrewshire Operational Crews and the Community Action Team (CAT) carried out a total of 104
Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSVs). Of these, 42 were classified as high-risk, and 43 were referrals from our close partner
organisations. These visits focused on households identified as being at greater risk from fire, including individuals over the age of
65, those living alone, people with limited mobility or requiring medical oxygen, and individuals affected by alcohol or drug
dependency.
In addition, we delivered 57 community safety events, with a primary focus on winter safety. These events covered a range of
important topics such as water and ice safety, road safety, and the prevention of accidental fires and related casualties in the home.
Particular emphasis was placed on households with residents over the age of 65. Our objective remains to reduce the number and
severity of accidental house fires and to target HFSVs toward high-risk groups.
From 24th to 28th January, the Community Action Team successfully delivered the first post-COVID Fire Skills Course at Renfrew
Community Fire Station. This initiative was run in partnership with Renfrewshire Council and the Community Learning and
Development team, with support from key agencies including Police Scotland, the Scottish Ambulance Service, and the Glasgow
Airport Fire Service.
The course forms part of a targeted, multi-agency early intervention strategy aimed at reducing fire-related anti-social behaviour.
Alongside fire safety education, the programme addressed broader risk issues, such as substance misuse and other high-risk
behaviours. Nine young people completed the course, developing vital life skills including CPR, teamwork, citizenship, and mutual
respect. They also took part in practical fire service activities designed to encourage personal development and informed decision -
making. We extend our sincere thanks to all participating agencies, with special appreciation to Renfrewshire Council for funding
this valuable initiative.
Recently, our Community Action Team hosted a successful pop-up road safety event at Tesco in Linwood, with a specific focus on
older drivers. The event aimed to raise awareness of safe driving habits and provide tailored information for more experienced
motorists. We engaged with over 100 members of the public, aged between 20 and 70, with a strong focus on those aged 50 and
above. The event facilitated meaningful conversations, shared vital road safety resources, and promoted responsible driving
throughout the community. The positive response underlined the importance of continuous education and engagement for drivers of
all ages.
Our Enforcement Team conducted 40 fire safety audits at the highest-risk premises across Renfrewshire. In addition, they carried
out 6 post-fire audits, which involved working directly with duty holders to assess current fire safety procedures and help prevent
future incidents. The team also participated in the St Mirren Safety Advisory Group, a multi-agency forum focused on improving
safety and emergency evacuation strategies.
As part of the SFRS Winter Safety Campaign, targeted visits were made to 12 retail premises across Renfrewshire to reduce the risk
of fire in commercial refuse storage areas. The team also responded to 9 premises identified through local intelligence as potential
fire hazards, providing advice and guidance to responsible persons on preventative fire safety measures.
Page 27 of 30

Page 28

13. Glossary of Terms
Term - What it means
ADF
Accidental Dwelling Fire.
HFSV
Home Fire Safety Visit.
PDIR
Post Domestic Incident Response, a term used to indicate actions taken following attendance at a fire or
other incident in the home. PDIRs include amongst things the offer of a free follow up home fire safety
visit.
RTC
Road Traffic Collision.
Special Service
Calls to incidents which are not fires or false alarms such as RTCs, rescues, flooding, incidents involving
hazardous materials or the provision of assistance to other agencies.
UFAS
Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals. When an automatic fire detection and alarm system is activated as a result
of anything other than an actual fire the activation is classed as a false alarm. If an attendance is made to
such an event by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, then the event is recorded as an UFAS incident.
UFAS Policy Change
In response to COVID, on the 6th May 2020, the SFRS decided to send 1 pump to UFAS premises that
did not have their own Predetermined attendance (PDA).
As of 1st July 2023, the COVID interim 1 pump response was ended and a new UFAS policy was
implemented.
The new policy is to call challenge all UFAS incidents with the intention of non-attendance. Hospitals, care
homes, and sleeping risk premises are all exempt and receive either 2 pumps or their premise specific
PDA.
202522/04/25 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Page 28 of 30

Page 29

Design, figures and charts by the Business Intelligence team.
Page 29 of 30

Page 30

Page 30 of 30