Partner release: Firestarters are risking lives Police warn written by
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue 1370250143
on the 03
rd June 2013 at 10:02
- Posted in Fire Blog
Police are warning firestarters they are putting their own and others' lives at risk. This follows an incident at Cleadon Hills Farm, on Sunniside Lane, in which hay bails and manure were set alight. Officers are treating the incident, which happened at 1.45pm, on Sunday, May 26, as arson and investigations are continuing. They are keen to trace three teenage boys, dressed in white, who were seen to leave the area at the time of the fire. However, they are also sending out a stark message that this and other similar incidents could have more serious consequences. Jon Commons, Acting Neighbourhood Inspector for the area, said: "Acts like these may be thought of as a prank to those involved, but they could have far more serious outcomes. "There is simply no excuse fro starting a fire deliberately. It put's people's lives at risk - not only the victim's, but those who have started the fire in the first place. "And not only does it cost the victim, but a deliberate fire diverts resources away from other emergencies which they will be needed at urgently. "Neighbourhood officers will be patrolling in and around this area to put a stop to any further incidents and would ask that public continue to provide us with any information so we can act on it." Station Manager Ian Cuskin, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said: "People who start deliberate fires often think it's a bit of fun, but they do not realise the devastating consequences of their behaviour. "If our firefighters are attending these type of fires, it means they cannot be elsewhere, where someone may really need life-saving help. There are additional associated risks with fires on farms as they may involve livestock. "There may also be hazards relating to the storage of fertiliser and fuel which may increase the risk of firefighter safety.†Anyone with information on the fire should contact police on 101, extension 69191 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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