Firefighters say they are struggling to reach those in Helensburgh who are most at risk of fire in their homes.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is appealing to communities across the country to help its crews reach Scotland’s most isolated and vulnerable people in 2024.

The Service’s Make the Call campaign is tasking families, friends, and carers to make a ten-minute phone call to book a free Home Fire Safety Visit (HFSV) to help save a life.

In the last 12 months, 42 people in Scotland have died because of fire, with more than half of them over the age of 50.

Fire investigations have shown that people over the age of 50, who smoke and either have mobility issues, live alone, or use medical oxygen, are more likely to be injured or killed by a fire in the home.

However, communities can put firefighters and SFRS specialists in touch with anyone they think is vulnerable by making a ten-minute phone call, sending a single text or by filling out an online form.

Iain Macleod, deputy assistant chief officer at the SFRS, said: “Far too often when we attend fires, we know they could have been prevented.

“If we had known about someone's living situation and how vulnerable they were, we could have acted.

“But we do not know who is vulnerable, where they are, or how to contact them.

"We need help.

“That is why we are urging members of the public, families, and carers to make the call on the behalf of someone they know if they think they may be at risk or in a vulnerable to fire in the home.”

Once a call, text or online form is received, the service will arrange for someone to receive a visit from trained SFRS staff from a local station to those who are most vulnerable.

During the visit, staff will identify key fire risks, offer solutions and assistance and where necessary can also install smoke detectors in the home for those who need it most.

If you are a family member, or carer, then you can refer someone directly for a HFSV.

If you are a neighbour or a concerned friend, you must secure their consent before referring someone.

To make the call and book a free home fire safety, visit www.firescotland.gov.uk, phone 0800 0731 999 or text “FIRE” to 80800.