The latest figures for blazes in the region have been revealed in an update from the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) due to be heard by South Ayrshire Council’s Service and Partnerships Performance Panel later this month.
The report by area commander Ian McMeekin, the local senior officer for Ayrshire, reveals that from April 1 to September 30 last year, there was a 24.4 per cent reduction in activity levels across the local authority when compared to the previous year.
False alarms accounted for 51.3 per cent of operational demand within South Ayrshire, with the rest being genuine calls.
The figures confirm there were 34 accidental dwelling fires in South Ayrshire during the reporting period, down 21 per cent from the same period in 2023.
These fires were caused by distraction in almost a quarter of the cases, and by alcohol/drug impairment in 15 per cent.
The fires resulted in six casualties, with four requiring first aid at the scene and two taken to hospital with slight injuries.
More than 100 deliberate fires were recorded during the period, down 44 per cent from the same time in 2023.
The majority of these took place in the Ayr North and Prestwick areas of South Ayrshire.
There were nine non-domestic fires in the region between April 1 and September 30, down from 15 the previous year.
Alongside tackling calls, firefighters in South Ayrshire carried out 367 home safety visits and conducted 156 fire safety audits from April to September.