The Fire and Rescue Service attend a significant number of fires each year that have been deliberately started.
Most are smaller fires such as rubbish bin, skip and small grass fires. However, some small fires can quickly escalate to become larger fires that affect buildings. and sometimes they can be life threatening.
We work with partner agencies such as the Police and local authorities to reduce arson in areas where a particular problem is identified.
How you can help
- Secure unused and derelict buildings by boarding up doors and windows and use security fencing where necessary
- Install security lighting, alarms and CCTV
- Use a mobile security company to perform regular checks in problem areas
- Ensure doors and windows to buildings and outbuildings are properly secured
- Keep gates locked and maintain and repair damaged walls and fencing. Don't make it easy for intruders to gain entry
- Keep flammable storage away from the building
- Chain and lock wheelie bins away from the building
- Report illegally dumped waste (fly tipping) to your local council for removal
- Report abandoned vehicles to your local council, they are an easy target for arsonists
If you know of someone who sets fires deliberately, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
