Scots are twice as likely to die in house fires than people living in the rest of the United Kingdom, fire chiefs warned on Monday.

Injuries and property damage caused by blazes are also much more common in Scotland than elsewhere.

A government-commissioned report has outlined a raft of measures to try and cut the number of fire deaths in the home.

The research - the most detailed ever undertaken - produced 37 recommendations including new sprinkler system regulations.

Smokers' materials and cooking appliances were found to be the main causes of fire, with alcohol often a contributory factor.

According to the study 47% of fire victims were 60 or over and 53% lived alone. Victims were more likely to live in the poorest parts of Scotland.

Brian Sweeney, Strathclyde Fire and Rescue's chief officer and chairman of the Scottish Community Fire Safety Study, said: "The Scotland Together report provides 37 recommendations which will assist in driving down the number of people killed by fire.

"The extensive research conducted is unique to Scotland and examines the underlying reasons for the number of people killed by fire. This report cannot, and must not, lie on a shelf if Scotland is to tackle this issue."

Community safety minister Fergus Ewing commissioned the study in November 2008 following a 62% increase in fire deaths the previous fiscal year.

He said: "The report contains a number of interesting proposals, and clearly demonstrates the need for an effective multi-agency approach, to both target the root cause of fires and deliver preventative solutions.

"All proposals will be given full consideration and, where appropriate, will help shape the range of work already being delivered by both the Government and its partners."