Firefighters are urging parents to speak to their children about the consequences of deliberate fires following a rise in arson incidents in County Durham.
County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) said crews have seen an increase in the number of deliberate fires in the South Pelaw area of Chester-le-Street this summer.
Firefighters have attended 20 deliberate fires in Chester-le-Street since June.
Incidents are typically taking place 4pm and 7pm, with bins being particularly targeted.
CDDFRS is asking residents and businesses to help reduce the risk by bringing in their bins as soon as possible after collection.
Station Manager Gary Tough said people should also keep bins secure and away from buildings and report suspicious activity to the police.
“Deliberate fires can put lives at risk and divert emergency services from genuine emergencies,” he said.
“Such incidents can also damage the environment and impact the wider community.
“We want to encourage parents to speak to children and young people about the dangers of fire-setting.”
Firefighters are working police, wardens, and local councillors to tackle the issue and offer advice to residents.
“This will include walkabouts of the areas and speaking to residents about how to keep themselves safe,” Station Manager Tough added.
“We urge anyone with information on deliberate fires in their area to contact police.
“You can also report incidents anonymously by calling FireStoppers on 0800 169 5558 or visiting www.firestoppersreport.co.uk.”
Durham Constabulary confirmed it is investigating a number of incidents of arson in the Chester-le-Street area and urged anyone with information to get in touch.
Sgt Paul Jones said “We are currently investigating a number of incidents of arson in the South Pelaw area of Chester-le-Street.
“We are appealing for anyone with information about these deliberate fires, or who has witnessed suspicious activity in the area, to contact us on 101 or report the information online.”
Caption: Firefighters from High Handenhold Fire Station pictured with a Durham County Council Neighbourhood Warden in Chester-le-Street.
