When Fire Risk Becomes Part of the Conversation About Hoarding
- nicolae31
- Aug 13
- 3 min read
Watching the devastating images of wildfires during this period of hot, dry weather can make us all think about how quickly fire can spread and how important fire safety is.
For people living with hoarding disorder, fire safety can be an especially important consideration. Not because someone who hoards is more likely to start a fire, but because the amount and arrangement of possessions within a home can make the consequences of a fire much more serious.
The UK Government published new official analysis in April 2026 looking specifically at dwelling fires associated with excessive and dangerous storage, using information recorded by Fire and Rescue Services across England between 2020 and 2025. The publication recognises hoarding as an important factor to consider when understanding fire risk in the home.
Fire and Rescue Services highlight several reasons why significant levels of clutter can increase risk. Combustible materials such as paper, clothing and other possessions can increase the amount of material available to burn. Clutter can also restrict access to doors and windows, make escape more difficult and create additional challenges for firefighters trying to reach someone safely.
The figures can be sobering. Islington Council reported between 2010 and 2015, there were 272 fires associated with hoarding, resulting in 10 fatalities and 41 injuries. These are local historical figures rather than national statistics, but they illustrate why fire safety deserves to be part of conversations about hoarding.
Smoke alarms are another important part of keeping people safe. Government statistics show that in England in 2024–25, 24% of dwelling fires occurred where a smoke alarm was not present, accounting for 31% of fire-related fatalities in dwelling fires. Analysis over five years found that people living in homes without a working smoke alarm were around 11 times more likely to die in a dwelling fire than those with a working alarm.
But talking about fire safety should never become about blame, shame or simply telling someone to 'clear the house'.
Hoarding disorder is complex. For the person experiencing it, possessions can have significant emotional meaning and attempts to remove items without understanding the underlying difficulties can be distressing and may not create lasting change.
What can make a real difference is support, understanding and practical risk reduction.
That might begin with making sure smoke alarms are working, keeping essential escape routes as clear as possible, identifying immediate hazards and working collaboratively with the person to make their home safer.
Sometimes, the most important first step isn't removing possessions. It is building trust.
At Red Squirrel, we believe people experiencing hoarding difficulties deserve support that recognises the person behind the possessions. Fire safety is an important part of that support – but so are compassion, dignity and understanding.
If you are concerned about someone living with hoarding difficulties, starting a conversation and seeking appropriate support can be an important first step towards a safer home.
A little support can make a big difference
Home Fire Safety Visit
If you, or someone you know, is living with hoarding difficulties, a free Home Fire Safety Visit can be a helpful, practical step towards making the home safer.
Nationwide Fire and Rescue Service offer person-centred visits to local eligible residents. They can identify potential fire risks, fit smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors where needed, provide fire-retardant bedding and other safety equipment, and help you make an escape plan.
Importantly, the focus is on support and reducing risk – not judgement.
You can refer yourself, or ask someone you trust to support you with the referral.
Find out more about Home Fire Safety Visit in your area.
For residents based in:
Hampshire click on following line: Home Fire Safety Visits from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service
West Sussex: Safe and Well Visit - West Sussex County Council
Having a plan, knowing your safest way out and making small changes can all help make a home safer.
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