Scottish Fire and Rescue Service - Argyll & Bute Performance and Scrutiny Group 2025-26 Q3 Scrutiny Report

Argyll and Bute Council · 5 March 2026
Back to Community Services Committee — 5 March 2026 and its agenda

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Page 1

Scrutiny Report
2025-26 Q3
Argyll & Bute Performance and
Scrutiny Group
Argyll and Bute

Page 2

202609/02/26 © 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
Argyll & Bute Performance and Scrutiny
Group
Argyll and Bute

Page 3

2025-26 Q31. Summary
63
Fires
80 207
False Alarms
376
24 1 1
Fire Fatalities
15 2
70
UFAS
In this report, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) shows a clear commitment to public safety through its response
to a wide range of operational incidents, as outlined above. 
Domestic home fire safety remains a priority. Fire safety audits and community engagement initiatives continue to be 
proactive measures that help make your communities safer places to live, work and visit. The overall trend shows 
consistent management of incidents, with seasonal variations affecting activity levels. Accidental dwelling fires are 
monitored closely, and work to reduce deliberate fires and non fire incidents continues. 
The data presented shows a coordinated approach to fire prevention and emergency response.
202609/02/26 © 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
False Alarm (Du…
False Alarm (UFAS)
Fire (Building)
False Alarm (Good I…
Inter-Agency
Incomplete (Incompl…
Fire (Outdoor)
Flooding / Water Res…
Vehicle (Non-fire)
Humanitarian
Other Non-Fire
102
70
42
34 33
26
17 16
10 7 7
Fire Safety AuditsHome Fire Safety Visits
Total Incidents
(Incl. Incompletes)
67103

Page 4

2. Trends Previous 16 quarters (4 years)
202609/02/26 © 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
22
2424
10 10
24
11
13 13
17 1616
12
18 17
20
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
21
11
43
5
40
6
22
16
9 812 13
18
11
16
8
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
2
9
11
3
10
4
7
6
8 7
4
5 6
8
4
4
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
158
70
209
56
142
75 65 636677
150
185
69 6968
168
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
15
9
26 2618
13
18
17
13
15
12
20 20
11
12
19

Page 5

2. Trends
202609/02/26 © 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
2 2
3
0 0 0
2 2
0
11
0
2
1
1
0
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
20
17
31
13
24
27
22 15
18
1514
27
23
17 1514
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
10
5
20
10
15
6 6
9 99 8
18
12
8 9 9
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
289
103
70
198
173
238
221
207
93
233
183
239
99
149
237
202
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
29 67
151
54
142
100
79
110
130 138
135
71
111 108 103
83

Page 6

SFRS is dedicated to reducing accidental dwelling fires in domestic properties across Scotland. This commitment is shown
through proactive work, community engagement and continuous improvement strategies. 
SFRS uses a range of measures to prevent fires before they start. One key initiative is the Home Fire Safety Visit (HFSV) 
program, where Community Action Teams and Operational Crews visit homes to assess fire risks and give tailored advice
on fire prevention in a domestic setting. These visits often include installing smoke alarms and heat detectors to meet 
Scottish Government legislation, helping ensure that homes are equipped to detect fires early. 
During this reporting quarter, we saw an increase in accidental dwelling fires, rising from 17 to 24 compared to the previous
reporting quarter. We will continue to monitor these incidents and take action where required.
202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Accidental Dwelling Fires
in this period
Extent of Damage Incidents

Not applicable 9
Limited to item 1st ignited 7
Limited to room of origin 5
Affecting more than 2 floors (not
whole building)
1
Roof space and other floors(s) 1
Whole building 1
Source of Ignition (Top 10)
Cooking appliance Electricity supply Not known Heating equipment Matches and candles Other domestic style
appliance
11
5
3
2 2
1
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
10
15
20
24
Incidents by Ward
Isle of Bute
Helensburgh Central
Mid Argyll
Oban North & Lorn
Dunoon
Helensburgh & Lomond South
Oban South & the Isles
Lomond North
6
5
3
3
2
2
2
1
2025-26 Q33. Accidental Dwelling Fires

Page 7

4. Accidental Dwelling Fire Casualties
Non-Fatal
Casualties
Fatal
Casualties
Nature of Injury/Cause of
Death
Casualties

Not known 1
Overcome by gas, smoke or toxic
fumes; asphyxiation
1
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 ongoing efforts to improve fire safety. 
Through strategic initiatives, community engagement, a data driven approach and targeted support for vulnerable groups 
we strive to make every home in Scotland safer. These efforts not only save lives but also promote a strong culture of fire 
safety awareness and prevention within our communities. 
Over this reporting period, there was sadly one fatal accidental dwelling fire casualty recorded. We will continue to focus 
our efforts on prevention and community safety to reduce the risk of further incidents.
202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Casualties by Ward
Isle of Bute
Mid Argyll
1
1
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
0
1
2
3
People
Rescued by
Firefighters
Extent of Harm
(Non-Fatal)
First Aid Given
at Scene
Hospital Slight
Injuries
Hospital Serious
Injuries
2025-26 Q3
1 1 1
1 0 0

Page 8

5. Non-Fire Casualties
202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
During this reporting period, we responded to a range of non fire related incidents, including road traffic collisions (RTCs), 
water rescues and other specialist operations. These incidents highlight the diverse nature of our work and the vital role we
play in supporting public safety beyond traditional fire related emergencies. 
Sadly, two of these incidents involved fatal casualties. Our crews were primarily mobilised to assist partner agencies, 
including Police Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service. These tragic events underscore the importance of our 
continued collaboration with partner agencies to provide the best possible response during challenging and often life critical
situations.
Casualties by Ward
Dunoon
Lomond North
Oban South & the Isles
South Kintyre
Cowal
Helensburgh & Lomond South
Isle of Bute
4
4
4
2
1
1
1
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
10
20
30
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

Back / Neck injury (spinal) 5
Chest / Abdominal injury 2
Not known 2
Other medical condition 2
Bruising 1
Chest pain / Heart condition / Cardiac
arrest
1
Fracture 1
Head injury 1
Hypothermia 1
Other physical injury 1
2025-26 Q3
15 2 23
0 11 4

Page 9

6. Deliberate Fires
Property Type Incident

Grassland, woodland and crops 4
Refuse 2
Non Residential 1
Other outdoors (including land) 1
Outdoor equipment and machinery 1
Outdoor structures 1
Road Vehicle 1
We are committed to reducing deliberate fire-setting due to the risks it poses to people, property, and the environment. 
These incidents divert resources from real  emergencies. To achieve this, we use the following strategies: 
Community Engagement: Awareness sessions in Argyll and Bute schools, focused on children and young people 
providing safety focused engagements.
Partnership Working: Working with Police Scotland, Community Wardens, and local schools.
Reporting: Encouraging the public to report suspicious activity or rubbish build-up. 
Over this recording period we have seen a decline from 16 operational incidents to 11.
202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Incidents by Ward
Cowal
Dunoon
Helensburgh & Lomond South
Kintyre & the Islands
Lomond North
Oban South & the Isles
3
2
2
2
1
1
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
0
20
40
11
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

Page 10

7. Non-Domestic Fires
We are dedicated to reducing non-domestic fires, recognising the significant impact these incidents can have on local 
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 (FSE) team acts as the enforcing authority for fire safety legislation in non-domestic 
premises. This includes regular inspections and ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations. The enforcement team 
also provides support and education to duty holders, including building owners, managers, and staff, to help them comply 
with current legislation.
Over this reporting period, non-domestic fire activity increased from 4 to 9 incidents. We will continue to closely monitor this
trend and take any necessary action as required. 
202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Non-Domestic
Fires in this
period
2025-26 Q3
Top 15 Property Types
Property Type Incidents

Food and Drink 2
Offices and call centres 2
Boarding House/B&B other 1
Other buildings/use not known 1
Public Utilities 1
Religious 1
Sheltered Housing - not self
contained
1
9 (100.0%)
Accidental
Deliberate
Incidents by Ward
Oban South & the Isles
Isle of Bute
Dunoon
Helensburgh & Lomond South
Helensburgh Central
Oban North & Lorn
3
2
1
1
1
1
Extent of Damage
Not applicable Limited to item 1st
ignited
Limited to room of
origin
Whole building
4
2 2
1
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
5
10
9

Page 11

8. Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals
SFRS introduced a revised policy aimed at reducing Unwanted Fire Alarm Signals (UFAS). This forms part of our wider
commitment to improving community safety and making effective use of resources across Scotland.
UFAS are false alarms triggered by automatic fire alarm systems. These can result from accidental activation of manual
call points, cooking fumes, dust or poor maintenance. Each UFAS incident diverts fire crews from genuine emergencies,
creating unnecessary demand on resources and the potential for delays in responding to real fires.
Since the introduction of this revised policy, we have continued to see a reduction in UFAS incidents. This positive trend is
reflected in the data presented in this report.
202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
Unwanted Fire Alarm
Signals in this period
2025-26 Q3
Top 15 Property Types
Property Type Incidents

Hotel/motel 24
Residential Home 16
Hospitals and medical care 9
Other Residential Home 5
Retail 4
Education 3
Other holiday residence (cottage, flat,
chalet)
3
Sheltered Housing - not self contained 2
Boarding House/B&B other 1
Nurses'/Doctors' accommodation 1
Offices and call centres 1
Sporting venues 1
Incidents by Ward
Oban South & the Isles
Helensburgh Central
Lomond North
Cowal
Dunoon
Mid Argyll
Oban North & Lorn
South Kintyre
Isle of Bute
Kintyre & the Islands
22
10
9
8
5
5
4
3
2
2
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
0
100
200
70

Page 12

9. Road Traffic Collisions
We are committed to reducing the number of Road Traffic Collisions (RTCs) across Scotland’s road network. We
recognise the devastating impact these incidents can have on individuals, families and local communities.
We have implemented a range of strategies and initiatives focused on prevention and effective response. We work closely
with Police Scotland and attend the L Division Road Safety Governance Group on a quarterly basis. These meetings
bring together key partners to identify new and existing risks and coordinate joint road safety strategies across Argyll and
Bute.
In partnership with Police Scotland, we continue to hold a series of road safety hub events at our community fire stations
in Campbeltown, Oban, Dunoon and Lochgilphead Joint Campus. Further details can be found on page 13 of this report.
During this reporting period, total incident numbers have reduced from 11 to 9.
202609/02/26 © 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
Oban South & the Isles
Lomond North
Dunoon
Helensburgh & Lomond South
Isle of Bute
Kintyre & the Islands
3
2
1
1
1
1
Trend by Quarter (4 years)
10
20
30
9
5 0 6
0 5 0
Property Type Incidents

Car 8
Van 1
Incident Type Incidents

Vehicle (Non-fire) 9

Page 13

10. Home Fire Safety Visits
202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
11. Fire Safety Enforcement
Job Type Count

Audit 67
Short Post Fire Audit 2
Specific Visit 1
The SFRS has implemented a new referral pathway for Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSVs) to enhance community safety 
and provide better support to vulnerable individuals. The revised HFSV programme takes a targeted approach, focusing 
on high risk individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria linked to known fire risk factors. 
We continue to audit non domestic properties to check compliance with fire safety legislation and identify any risks. These
audits help duty holders maintain suitable measures to prevent fires and protect people within their premises.
Audits by Ward
Oban South & the Isles
Oban North & Lorn
Kintyre & the Islands
Dunoon
South Kintyre
34
25
4
2
2
2025-26 Q3
HFSVs by Ward
Helensburgh Central
Oban North & Lorn
Oban South & the Isles
Dunoon
Cowal
Lomond North
Helensburgh & Lomond South
Mid Argyll
South Kintyre
Isle of Bute
Kintyre & the Islands
19
16
16
15
9
8
7
6
4
3
0
Home Fire
Safety Visits
103

Page 14

12. Community Safety & Engagement
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 in all
Argyll and Bute 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. 
Road Safety Hub Events Update 
As we approached the darker nights, these sessions offered safety 
advice on driving at night. In partnership with Police Scotland and IAM
RoadSmart, SFRS hosted Road Safety Hub night driving safety events
on 22 and 25 November at fire stations in Campbeltown, Oban, 
Dunoon and Lochgilphead High Joint Campus. 
These free events aimed to raise awareness of road safety and 
provided practical advice to reduce the risk of collisions. We thank 
everyone who attended and supported these sessions. 
Christmas Gift Appeal 
The SFRS Christmas Gift Appeal, delivered in partnership with 
Home Start, was a success this year. Thanks to the generosity of the  
public, 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  u
pdates 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.
202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on
2025-26 Q3

Page 15

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.
202609/02/26 © Scottish Fire & Rescue ServiceReport generated on

Page 16

Design, figures and charts by the Business Intelligence team.