In the Know - Lancashire: National Hoarding Awareness Week

National Hoarding Awareness Week

At Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community. That's why we are joining forces with the National Hoarding Awareness Week campaign, taking place from 16th May to 22nd May, to shed light on the dangers of hoarding disorder. We want to emphasize the serious impact hoarding can have on individuals, families, and communities, particularly in terms of fire hazards.

Did you know that approximately 5% of the UK population is affected by hoarding disorder? Hoarding not only poses health risks but also significantly increases the chances of a devastating fire. The accumulation of combustible materials, like paper and cardboard, creates a highly flammable environment that can fuel a fire, spreading rapidly and putting lives at risk. Additionally, blocked exits make it difficult for individuals to escape in emergencies, further amplifying the danger.

Preventing hoarding-related fires requires a collaborative effort from individuals, families, and communities. National Hoarding Awareness Week provides an excellent opportunity to learn more about hoarding disorder and the associated risks. By raising awareness and taking proactive steps, we can help prevent hoarding-related fires and ensure the safety of ourselves and our communities.

Here are some practical steps you can take to reduce the risk of fire:

If you are concerned about a loved one's hoarding behavior, we urge you to complete the form on our LFRS home fire safety check page. Our team of experts will provide personalized fire safety advice. In certain cases, if you meet specific criteria, they will even visit the property in person to assess how improvements can be made.

Remember, help is also available from your GP, the NHS website, and Mind. These resources can provide further information and support for dealing with hoarding disorder.

Should anyone wish to sign up to receive information direct please see below:

In The Know - Lancashire

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