Written question asked by Gregory Campbell (Democratic Unionist Party) on Thursday, 11 November 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 November 2004. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Thursday, 18 November 2004 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many deaths have been caused by fire in Northern Ireland in 2004; and in how many instances (a) no smoke alarm being fitted and (b) a faulty or non-working smoke alarm was a contributory factor. - Inc figures.

Answer: Mr. Gregory Campbell: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many deaths have been caused by fire in Northern Ireland in 2004; and in how many instances (a) no smoke alarm being fitted and (b) a faulty or non-working smoke alarm was a contributory factor. [198637] Angela Smith: In the year to date (to 15 November 2004) there have been a total of 11 fire deaths in dwellings. Eight of these deaths have been deemed to be accidental. The cause of the remaining three is currently under investigation. Of the 11 dwelling fires, a total of six were fitted with a working smoke alarm. There was no functioning smoke alarm in the remaining five.

Secondary information