Firefighter Liam Cox holding fireworks.
They’re someone’s parent, sibling, friend – treat them how you would want your loved ones treated. Think before you throw.
That’s the message from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) ahead of the busiest period of the year for the fire service.
Bonfire Night and the lead up, typically sees a surge in calls coming into the service’s control room.
And, sadly, an increase in needless attacks on crews.
Last year on November 5, four crews had lit fireworks directed at them and two fire engines were damaged after a brick and other missiles were thrown at them.
Fortunately, no one was injured.
CDDFRS Group Manager Jon Singleton said: “No one goes to work to be assaulted.
“It’s especially disgusting to attack the very people in our community whose job it is to keep people safe.
“One of our fire engines was so badly damaged that it needed to be taken off the run.
“In the event of a fire, a few minutes difference in arrival time can mean everything and incidents like this could have a real impact on us reaching the people who genuinely need us most.”
Firefighters will continue to wear body worn cameras when attending incidents so that they can capture footage which may support any prosecutions if they are attacked on duty.
CCTV is also installed on every fire engine.
Meanwhile, Durham Constabulary police officers and police community support officers will also be based at fire stations across the Service on several action evenings over the bonfire period.
Officers will accompany firefighters to incidents to provide on-the-ground support in an effort to reduce fire-related incidents and anti-social behaviour.
Group Manager Singleton added: “Today the October Half Term begins and I implore parents and carers to continue to speak to young people in their households about the dangers and consequences of this type of behaviour.
“Remind them to think before they throw.
“Not only could someone caught throwing a firework or other missile at an emergency service vehicle or first responder risk serious police action, but they risk seriously injuring the person behind the uniform.
“They’re someone’s parent, sibling, friend – treat them how you would want your loved ones to be treated.
“Think before you throw.”
