Cleveland Fire Brigade is appealing for everyone to become a FireStopper in a new bid to reduce arson and violent attacks on Firefighters.
Anyone with any information about deliberate fires or violence against Fire Crews stays 100% anonymous when they use this new service. You’ll not be asked who you are, just what you know, so that we can investigate further.
It comes with Cleveland Fire Brigade being in the unwanted pole position of deliberate fires in the country – with 85% of all fire calls related to arson. The main targets are rubbish, grasslands, and vehicles.
There have also been incidents of youths starting fires and then ambushing crews when they arrive.
Latest figures show there were 3,005 deliberate fires between April and August this year – a 52% rise compared to the same period in 2021.
Robin Turnbull, Area Manager, Prevention, Protection and Engagement, said: “This could not be simpler. We are appealing for everyone to be extra vigilant, and report any incidents to FireStoppers, a service that ensures you remain anonymous. Only you will know you passed on information and nobody else. FireStoppers will help us work together to reduce deliberate fires which are a blot on our communities and divert our resources away from real emergencies where lives may be at risk.
“It is also completely unacceptable for our staff to be subject to violence and acts of vandalism whilst protecting the public. This will not be tolerated.
“FireStoppers is a service that enables you to pass information on to us very quickly and easily. Arson is totally unacceptable, and we are determined to clampdown on the minority who are intent on such anti-social behaviour.
“We can all take steps to reduce the opportunities for deliberate fires. These include putting wheelie bins out only on the day of collection and bringing them back in as soon as possible, storing any bins or rubbish well away from property and reporting fly-tipping.”
“By being a FireStopper and looking out for what is happening in your area, we can all make a difference and keep our communities safe.”
Deliberate Fires Destroy Communities
Tell us what you know, call FireStoppers on 0800 169 5558 or go to www.firestoppersreport.co.uk and complete the simple online form. 100% anonymous. Always.
