Talk – Guard That Fire! Fire Safety in 20th Century Britain

** BOOKING ESSENTIAL**

‘Guard That Fire! A History of Fire Safety in Britain during the Twentieth Century’

With Dr Shane Ewen (Leeds Beckett University)

This talk will examine the history of fire and burns prevention campaigns in twentieth-century Britain. It will focus on the evolution of iconic images of child safety (e.g. the ‘burning girl dress’, ‘the scalded boy’ and the absent fire-guard) through a visual tour of key local and national campaigns across the century. In so doing, the talk will trace the growing role of the state (both central and local government), industry bodies and charities in regulating fire safety within the home, especially in targeting vulnerable, ‘at risk’ groups.

A talk to tie in with Abbey House Museum’s 2019 exhibition, ‘Danger Zone’. https://www.leeds.gov.uk/dangerzone

Please book your place in advance (pay on the day). Talk is £5.50 including admission to the rest of the museum. A hot beverage is included.

E: abbey.house@leeds.gov.uk

T: 0113 3784079

Cover image: Interior-Fireside scene by Spencer Frederick Gore (1878-1914), c.1910. Image © Leeds Museums and Galleries.

Venue address: