Monaghan Fire & Civil Protection is encouraging people across the county to make fire safety a priority during Fire Safety Week 2026, which takes place from 12th to 18th October.
This year’s theme, “Know Your Room, Know the Risk, Know the Person”, focuses on helping people recognise fire hazards in the rooms they use every day and take simple steps to reduce those risks. The campaign also encourages people to check in on older relatives, neighbours and vulnerable members of their community who may be at greater risk from fire.
Recent fire fatality statistics published by the National Directorate for Fire and Emergency Management show that 34 people lost their lives in fires in Ireland during 2025, an increase from 25 fatalities in 2024. The average age of those who died was 63, with 40% aged over 65. Smoking remained the leading known cause of fatal fires. Of the fatal dwelling fires recorded in 2025, almost one-third originated in bedrooms, highlighting the importance of understanding the risks that can exist in every room of the home.
Fire safety starts with understanding the dangers that can exist in different parts of the home. Unattended cooking, open fires, heaters, smoking materials and charging electrical devices can all pose significant fire risks if not used safely.
Speaking at the launch of Fire Safety Week, Cathaoirleach Cllr. Aidan Campbell said:
“Fire Safety Week is an important reminder that small actions can make a big difference. By understanding the risks in our homes and looking out for vulnerable members of our communities, we can help prevent fires and protect lives. I wish to complement the staff of Monaghan Fire & Civil Protection for the great work they do & commitment to fire prevention, community fire safety and on the fire ground by attending to incidents 24/7.”
Chief Executive Robert Burns added:
“The key message this year is awareness. Knowing the risks in the rooms we use every day and taking simple preventative measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of a fire.”
Chief Fire Officer Dermot Brannigan said:
“National statistics show that almost one-third of fatal dwelling fires in 2025 originated in bedrooms. This highlights why people should think about the risks in every room of their home, not just the kitchen or living room. Every home should have working smoke alarms that are regularly tested and can be heard from bedrooms at night. Early warning saves lives.”
Throughout the week, Monaghan Fire & Civil Protection will promote daily fire safety messages through local media and social media channels. A Primary School Fire Safety Poster Competition will also be held, with the winning entry announced during Fire Safety Week.
Monaghan Fire & Civil Protection is encouraging everyone to remember the STOP Fire message:
Smoke alarms save lives. Fit smoke alarms throughout your home and ensure they can be heard from bedrooms at night.
Test your smoke alarms regularly and check that they are within their expiry date.
Obvious dangers cause fires. Take care with cooking, heaters, open fires, smoking materials and charging electrical devices. This year’s theme, “Know Your Room, Know the Risk, Know the Person”, encourages people to identify the fire risks that may exist in every room of their home and take steps to reduce them.
Plan your escape. Have an escape plan, carry out a quick-fire safety check before going to bed and ensure everyone in the household knows what to do if a fire occurs.
For further fire safety information visit Monaghan Fire & Civil Protection’s social media channels or contact the Fire Prevention Office at fireprevention@monaghancoco.ie
Fire Safety Advice & Free Smoke Alarms – Saturday 17th October 2026
As part of the campaign, firefighters will be present in Monaghan’s five towns on Saturday 17th October, providing fire safety advice and distributing free smoke alarms to eligible households.