Leitrim fire chief warns of dangers of new heating tool on the market

The festive season is a time when house fires spike, with electrical devices on and Christmas candles lit; however, outdoor heaters are a growing problem this year.

The public is being warned not to use garage heaters in their homes, which has become a worrying trend, according to Michael Bond, Leitrim senior assistant chief fire officer.

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“We do know that on the market we have some new devices for heating areas that may have been used traditionally in garages or sheds or better ventilated areas,” told Shannonside this week.

“So all we're doing is reminding the public that any device that burns solid fuel, especially kerosene or diesel, must be used in a well-ventilated area, should be outdoors only or vented to outdoors.”

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“Something that's suitable in a domestic garage will not be suitable in your small compartment flat or even your own domestic house, and you must follow the manufacturer's instructions on them and just be aware of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning from them.”

There were 44 domestic fires in Leitrim in the latest government statistics, which were published for 2024.

There were 25 deaths in Ireland this year due to fires, according to government statistics.