As thousands of students settle into university accommodation across Tyne and Wear this October, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) is urging everyone to help reduce false alarms.
In 2024, TWFRS responded to 4,965 false alarms – an average of 13 every day. Many of these incidents occurred in student housing, often triggered by burnt toast, unattended cooking, or faulty alarms.
False alarms divert crews from real emergencies, placing unnecessary strain on resources and potentially delaying life-saving responses.
Area Manager for Community Safety, Paul Russell, said: “We can’t be in two places at once.”
“Every unnecessary call-out takes our crews away from the communities we serve and adds pressure to our resources.
“We’re committed to reducing false alarms, and working together with public can make a significant difference.”
Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Stewart Nicholson, said: “While we aim to provide a swift response to every alarm, false alarms significantly impact the available fire cover in the Service area for real emergencies.”
“False alarms not only waste resources but also contribute to increased costs. It’s vital that we address this issue to maintain the efficiency of our operations and safeguard our communities.”
TWFRS has been working closely with universities and students to tackle this issue head-on. Over the summer and into the new academic year, the service has:
- Developed new educational resources – including a digital guide with fire safety tips on cooking, electricals, vaping, and smoke alarms – plus a knowledge quiz
- Attended Freshers events at universities to deliver fire safety advice directly to students
- Distributed branded safety merchandise, such as fridge magnets with key reminders.
- Installed posters and digital screens across campuses and Nexus Metro stations
- Delivered targeted social media coverage to reach students online
Key Messages:
- 4,965 false alarms in 2024 – or 13.6 false alarms per day on average.
- We can’t be in two places at once – false alarms take crews from real emergencies
- We’re committed to improving efficiency and safeguarding resources.
Top Reasons for False Alarms:
- Cooking accidents (e.g. burnt toast)
- Faulty alarms
- Accidental or careless activation
TWFRS is calling on students to take simple steps to prevent false alarms and help keep their communities safe. Avoid leaving cooking unattended and ensure alarms are regularly maintained to prevent unnecessary call-outs.
For more information please visit: www.twfire.gov.uk
About the Author
Tyne and Wear Fire & Rescue Service
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service serves a resident population of 1.104 million divided amongst the five constituent councils of Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, South Tyneside and Sunderland in the North East of England.
