Item 7b - SFRS Scrutiny Report Q3
West Dunbartonshire Council · 25 February 2026
Back to Housing & Communities Committee — 25 February 2026 and its agenda
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Scrutiny Report 2025-26 Q3 West Dunbartonshire Performance and Scrutiny Group West Dunbartonshire ITEM 7b
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202610/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on 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. 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 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Contents Scrutiny Report 2025-26 Q3 West Dunbartonshire Performance and Scrutiny Group West Dunbartonshire
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2025-26 Q31. Summary 113 Fires 81 113 False Alarms 314 19 0 0 Fire Fatalities 12 2 28 UFAS 202610/02/26 © 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 Fire (Outdoor) False Alarm (Due to Apparatus) Inter-Agency False Alarm (Good Intent) Fire (Building) False Alarm (UFAS) Fire (Vehicle) Flooding / Water Rescue Vehicle (Non-fire) Humanitarian 66 49 35 32 32 28 15 14 10 9 Fire Safety AuditsHome Fire Safety Visits Total Incidents (Incl. Incompletes) 3783 In this report, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service(SFRS) has demonstrated a strong commitment to public safety. We attended a range of operational incidents, which are detailed above. Home Fire Safety Visits(HFSV) continue to be a priority, and we conducted 83 visits over this recording period. Fire safety audits and community engagement initiatives remain proactive measures, ensuring our communities are safer places to work, live, and visit. The overall trend in this report reflects a steady management of all incidents, with fluctuations reflecting seasonal variations. Accidental dwelling fires are well monitored, while the service also continues to focus on reducing deliberate fires and non-fire incidents. The data provided highlights a well-coordinated approach to fire prevention and emergency response.
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2. Trends Previous 16 quarters (4 years) 202610/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Accidental Dwelling Fires 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 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 24 18 34 18 33 23 33 26 29 29 25 29 26 29 31 19 Deliberate Fires 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 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 73 76 182 30 178 45 168 71 84 65 87 49 94 90 81 56 Non-Domestic Fires 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 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 5 7 11 0 7 4 10 9 4 6 8 6 5 7 6 5 Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals 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 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 83 28 136 25 52 119 101 46 31 51 101 34 35 29 42 108 Road Traffic Collisions 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 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 5 10 12 2 9 4 5 7 7 8 7 9 6 8 7 8
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2. Trends 202610/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Previous 16 quarters (4 years) Accidental Dwelling Fire Casualties 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 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 0 0 9 2 5 6 3 1 2 6 0 1 2 2 4 2 Non-Fire Casualties 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 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 5 1414 3 3 6 7 9 8 6 4 4 10 6 6 3 Road Traffic Collision Casualties 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 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 2 5 9 0 0 96 1 1 3 1 3 2 3 1 2 Home Fire Safety Visits 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 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 300 8372 239 199 203 264260 220 107106 239 227 229 213 224 Fire Safety Audits 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 2025-26 Q1 2025-26 Q2 2025-26 Q3 14 37 46 1 19 35 1617 23 18 12 23 22 36 11 37
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SFRS is dedicated to reducing accidental dwelling fires in domestic properties across Scotland. This commitment is evident through our proactive measures, community engagement, and continuous improvement strategies. SFRS employs a range of proactive measures to prevent fires before they start. One of their key initiatives is the HFSV program, where Community Action Teams and Operational Crews visit homes to assess fire risks and provide tailored advice on fire prevention. These visits often include the installation of smoke alarms and heat detectors to comply with Scottish Government legislation thus ensuring that homes are equipped to detect fires early. Over this quarterly reporting period we see a decrease in accidental dwelling fires across West Dunbartonshire by 1, from the previous quarter and by 15 for Q3 year on year. 202610/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Accidental Dwelling Fires in this period Extent of Damage Incidents Not applicable 14 Limited to item 1st ignited 2 Limited to floor of origin (not whole building) 1 Limited to room of origin 1 Source of Ignition (Top 10) Cooking appliance Electricity supply Heating equipment Naked flame Other appliance or equipment Smoking Related 11 2 2 1 1 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 15 20 25 30 35 18 Incidents by Ward Dumbarton Leven Clydebank Central Clydebank Waterfront Kilpatrick Lomond 6 5 4 1 1 1 2025-26 Q33. Accidental Dwelling Fires
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4. Accidental Dwelling Fire Casualties Non-Fatal Casualties Fatal Casualties Nature of Injury/Cause of Death Casualties SFRS is committed to reducing accidental dwelling fire casualties across all communities in Scotland. This dedication is reflected in our comprehensive reduction strategies, community-focused initiatives, and continuous efforts to improve fire safety. Through strategic initiatives, community engagement, a data-driven approach, support for vulnerable groups, and continuous improvement, we strive to make every home in Scotland safer. Our efforts not only save lives but also foster a culture of fire safety awareness and prevention within our communities. Over this reporting period the number of accidental dwelling fire casualties has remained at 0. There were no fatal dwelling fire casualties over this recording period. 202610/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Casualties by Ward Trend by Quarter (4 years) 0 5 10 People Rescued by Firefighters Extent of Harm (Non-Fatal) First Aid Given at Scene Hospital Slight Injuries Hospital Serious Injuries 2025-26 Q3 0 0 1 0 0 0
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5. Non-Fire Casualties 202610/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Non- fire casualties encompass all other incidents we attend, including road traffic collisions, water rescues, and other specialist type incidents that do not involve fire. Over this recording period we have seen an increase in non-fire casualties, from 10 to 14, which we will continue to actively monitor. Unfortunately, we have recorded two non-fire fatal casualties in this period (an increase from 1 non-fire fatal in the previous quarter). These are incidents where SFRS responds to assist agencies, such as Police Scotland and Scottish Ambulance. Casualties by Ward Leven Clydebank Central Dumbarton Lomond Clydebank Waterfront Kilpatrick 4 3 3 2 1 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 5 10 Non-Fatal Casualties Fatal Casualties People Rescued by Firefighters Extent of Harm (Non-Fatal) First Aid Given at Scene Hospital Slight Injuries Hospital Serious Injuries Nature of Injury/Cause of Death Casualties Hypothermia 4 Cuts/Lacerations 2 Back / Neck injury (spinal) 1 Chest / Abdominal injury 1 Collapse 1 Drowning 1 Not known 1 Other 1 Other medical condition 1 Overcome by gas, smoke or toxic fumes; asphyxiation 1 2025-26 Q3 12 2 18 1 9 2
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6. Deliberate Fires Property Type Incident Refuse 45 Road Vehicle 9 Other outdoors (including land) 8 Grassland, woodland and crops 6 Dwelling 4 Non Residential 2 Other Residential 1 Outdoor structures 1 We are committed to reducing deliberate fire setting, recognising the significant dangers it poses to communities and the environment. Deliberate fires can endanger lives, cause property damage, and divert valuable resources away from genuine emergencies. We have several strategies to reduce this type of incident including: Community Engagement: We actively engage with communities to raise awareness about the risks and consequences of deliberate fire setting. This includes educational programs aimed at children and young people in West Dunbartonshire Schools. Collaboration with Partners: We collaborate with various partners, including Police Scotland, Community Wardens and with local schools. Reporting and Prevention: We encourage the public to report any suspicious activities or build-up of rubbish that could potentially be set on fire Over this reporting period there was a reduction in deliberate fires from 81 to 76. 202610/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Incidents by Ward Clydebank Waterfront Leven Dumbarton Clydebank Central Kilpatrick Lomond 18 16 14 13 9 6 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 0 50 100 150 200 76 Deliberate Fires in this period 2025-26 Q3 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
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7. Non-Domestic Fires We are dedicated to reducing non-domestic fires, recognising the significant impact these incidents can have on businesses, public buildings, and the wider community. Non-domestic fires can lead to substantial economic losses, disrupt services, and pose serious risks to public safety. Our local fire safety enforcement team acts as an enforcing authority for fire safety legislation in non-domestic premises. This includes regular inspections and ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations. Our enforcement team is also there to provide support and education to duty holders, including building owners, managers, and staff, to help them comply with current legislation. Over this recording period we saw an increase in Non-Domestic fires from 0 to 7, which we will continue to monitor. 202610/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Non-Domestic Fires in this period 2025-26 Q3 Top 15 Property Types Property Type Incidents Retail 3 Hospitals and medical care 1 Public Utilities 1 Religious 1 Sheltered Housing - not self contained 1 6 (85.7%) 1 (14.3%) Accidental Deliberate Incidents by Ward Dumbarton Clydebank Central Clydebank Waterfront Leven 3 2 1 1 Extent of Damage Not applicable Limited to item 1st ignited 4 3 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 0 5 10 7
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8. Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals SFRS introduced a new policy in 2023 aimed at significantly reducing Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals (UFAS). This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to enhance community safety and optimise the use of resources. Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals are false alarms triggered by automatic fire alarm systems. These false alarms can be caused by various factors, including cooking fumes, dust, or lack of maintenance. UFAS incidents divert fire crews from genuine emergencies, leading to unnecessary costs and potential delays in response to real fires. Since the implementation of our revised policy, we continue to see a numbers reduce in this type of incident This is highlighted by the steady and continued reduction from to 29 to 28 in this report. 202610/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals in this period 2025-26 Q3 Top 15 Property Types Property Type Incidents Hospitals and medical care 9 Residential Home 9 Hotel/motel 2 Sheltered Housing - not self contained 2 Warehouses and bulk storage 2 Boarding House/B&B for homeless/asylum seekers 1 Industrial Manufacturing 1 Industrial Processing 1 Retail 1 Incidents by Ward Clydebank Waterfront Dumbarton Lomond Kilpatrick Leven Clydebank Central 11 6 5 3 2 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 50 100 28
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9. Road Traffic Collisions The SFRS is committed to reducing the number of Road Traffic Collisions (RTCs) across Scotland. Recognising the devastating impact these incidents can have on individuals, families and communities, we have implemented a range of strategies and initiatives aimed at prevention and effective response. We work closely with Police Scotland and attend the 'L' Division Road Safety Governance group on a quarterly basis. This meeting allows stakeholders to identify new and existing risks and coordinate road safety strategies across West Dunbartonshire. We did see an increase in RTCs over this recording period from 8 to 10 incidents, which we will continue to monitor. There were no fatal casualties and one casualty taken to hospital with serious injuries. 202610/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on Road Traffic Collisions in this period Non-Fatal Casualties Fatal Casualties People Rescued by Firefighters Extent of Harm (Non-Fatal) First Aid Given at Scene Hospital Slight Injuries Hospital Serious Injuries 2025-26 Q3 Incidents by Ward Clydebank Waterfront Dumbarton Lomond Kilpatrick 5 2 2 1 Trend by Quarter (4 years) 5 10 10 5 0 5 0 4 1 Property Type Incidents Car 9 Lorry/HGV 1 Incident Type Incidents Vehicle (Non-fire) 10
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10. Home Fire Safety Visits 202610/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on 11. Fire Safety Enforcement Job Type Count Audit 37 Short Post Fire Audit 1 The SFRS referral pathway for HFSVs, aims to enhance community safety and better support vulnerable individuals. This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to reduce fire risks and improve overall safety in homes across Scotland. The revised HFSV programme focuses on a more targeted approach, prioritising high risk individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria. These criteria are based on extensive research into factors that increase the risk of fire fatalities. The goal is to ensure that those most vulnerable receive the necessary support and intervention to prevent fire incidents. Audits by Ward Dumbarton Clydebank Waterfront Leven Lomond 22 6 6 3 2025-26 Q3 HFSVs by Ward Leven Dumbarton Clydebank Waterfront Kilpatrick Clydebank Central Lomond 20 17 16 15 10 5 Home Fire Safety Visits 83
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12. Community Safety & Engagement 202610/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on 2025-26 Q3 Community Safety Campaigns/ Safety Messaging Bonfire/Firework safety In the lead up to 5 November, our Community Action Team and operational crews delivered bonfire/firework safety presentations across West Dunbartonshire primary and secondary schools. The sessions covered the risks linked to bonfires and fireworks and highlighted how young people can stay safe during this busy period. Pupils engaged well and asked useful questions, and staff welcomed the support in reinforcing key safety messages ahead of Bonfire Night. Thank you to everyone involved for helping promote safer choices in our communities. We were also happy to see the positive support and multi-agency cooperation once again from West Dunbartonshire Council Departments and Police Scotland, in the publication of the Bonfire & Firework Joint Protocol. Each year, this process strengthens our partnership working and provides opportunities to review our prevention actions in the lead up to Bonfire Night. Christmas Gift Appeal The SFRS Christmas Gift Appeal, delivered in partnership with Y-Sort it, was a huge success in 2025. Thanks to the generosity of the public and supporting partner agencies, a large number of toys and gifts were collected, ensuring that local children and families received much needed support over the festive period. Home Fire Safety Visit We launched a new referral process for Home Fire Safety Visits, designed to better identify and support individuals at higher risk. This update introduces a streamlined digital referral system and improves collaboration through a new data sharing framework. The final phase for partner access will be available soon, with further updates to follow. To support the roll out, SFRS will be providing ongoing training and guidance to partner organisations, ensuring they can use the new system effectively. These improvements reflect our continued commitment to enhancing fire safety and reducing fire related incidents across Scotland.
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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. 202610/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
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