The number of accidental fires at homes in East Ayrshire have almost halved.

There has been a 48% decrease on the year before, with only 44 incidents recorded between April and September 2017.

The total number of all incidents attended by firefighters has also fallen by 3% to 1217.

Local senior officer James Scott revealed the figures to East Ayrshire's police, fire and rescue committee on Tuesday.

Speaking after the meeting he said: "Whilst I welcome the reduction in accidental dwelling fires, we are not complacent.

"Between April and September this year, firefighters carried out more than 500 home fire safety visits to help identify hazards as well as supply and install smoke detectors free of charge.

"We're here to help everyone stay safe but we're particularly keen to support the most vulnerable and elderly within our communities."