Events to warn people of the fire risks of hoarding will be held in Exeter this month.
Hoarding is described by the organisers as a hidden problem which can put people at significant risk of harm in their own homes.
It is estimated that 1-3 million people in the UK are compulsive hoarders, and 18 million would describe themselves as "collectors."
Homes that are too full to be safe present a significant risk to those that live in them and firefighters who would need to access them in times of emergency.
Research has found that of the 88 fatal fire deaths in the south west from 2008 to 2013 poor housekeeping was a factor in 19 of those incidents.
The first ever UK Hoarding Awareness Week will be held from 19-25 May and is being run in conjunction with The Chief Fire Officers Association (CFOA) and the Association of Professional Declutterers and Organisers (APDO).
Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service is hosting two open door coffee mornings during the week at the Exeter Danes Castle Fire Station to offer people a chance to talk informally and privately about how to reduce such risks in their homes.
Free home fire risk assessments and alarm fittings are being offered, as well as a unique opportunity to speak confidentially with Jasmine Sleigh, a local APDO registered organiser who has worked with those with hoarding tendencies.
Jasmine, of Change Your Space, said: "The week is a great chance to raise awareness of an often secret problem that many in our community face. Only 5% of those with these challenges in their lives come to the attention of professionals who can support them. We want to turn that around and offer a way in which families and individuals can find out what is available to make them safer without judgment or embarrassment."
It is hoped that the awareness week will flourish into a regular monthly self- support group for those with hoarding concerns, as has been successful in Plymouth. The 'Exeter Squirrels' group aims to combat the isolation that many feel when their homes are full, and to find ways in which changes can be made to reduce the risks of falls and fire.
Station Manager Graham Rooms, of Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service, said: "Fires in properties where individuals have a tendency to hoard create very specific risks and hazards. The week will help firefighters and partners understand the risks and hazards associated with hoarding and will allow us to work together to reduce those risks to both the community and to our crews."
The open door sessions will be held at Danes Castle Fire Station community room, Howell Road, in Exeter on Wednesday 21st and Thursday 22nd May, 10am-midday. Come along for a cup of tea and ask any questions about home safety and how to reduce risks in a home that has become overwhelmingly full.
For more information about the support group contact Station Manager Graham Rooms on 01392 456881.
