FIRE deaths, injuries and accidental house blazes all fell last year, according to new statistics from Strathclyde Fire and Rescue service.

There were 14 fatalities in 2012 compared to 27 the previous year and a 3% reduction when it came to those injured, while accidental house fires were down 4%.

However, the service's chief officer said four deaths over the festive period showed people must always be aware of the dangers of fire.

Figures showed a 14% drop in fire casualties and a 5% fall in accidental house fires from December 1 to January 3 compared with the same period the previous year.