CHIMNEYS, HOT ASHES and soot were the leading causes of domestic fires in Ireland last year, contributing to 25 fire-related deaths, according to new figures.

The figures, released by the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management, also found that 21 of those who died in fire-related incidents were aged 55 or over.

Fire brigades attended nearly 20,000 fires across the country in 2024, including incidents in homes, industrial facilities, forests, grasslands, outdoor rubbish sites, vehicles, ships, and aircraft.

In homes, electrical wiring, cooking, and heating systems were also frequent sources of fires, while some were caused by malicious intent or outdoor rubbish burning.

The data showed that there were 1,155 fires in houses which originated in chimneys.

Outside of domestic settings, fire crews attended hundreds of incidents in factories, shops, and commercial buildings, as well as over 2,000 vehicle fires and dozens of fires involving ships or aircraft.

Keith Leonard, National Director for Fire and Emergency Management, offered his condolences to the families affected.

“My condolences to the families and friends of people who have lost their lives to fires,” he said.

“We hope that publishing this data will remind all of us of the importance of vigilance and fire prevention.”

He emphasised the need for practical safety measures.

“Our core message is to fit a working smoke alarm and test it weekly, have your chimney cleaned, and have an escape plan for your household should a fire break out,” Leonard said.

He also highlighted the vulnerability of older people, urging the public to check on relatives and neighbours.

“The next time you are in the home of an older relative or neighbour, make sure they have a working smoke alarm – it is the most important piece of fire safety equipment for the home,” he said.