Fire service’s 13 false alarms a day

THE Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service responded to an average of 13 false alarms a day in 2024.

- OWEN YOUNGER

Firefighters from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service

Many of these incidents occured in student housing, and divert emergency crews from real emergencies, place strain on resources, and delay potentially lifesaving interventions.

TWERS responded to a total of 4,965 false alarms, which are often triggered by burnt toast, unattended cooking, or faulty alarms.

Now, with thousands of students settling into their university accommodation, the fire service is urging for the public’s help to reduce these numbers.