Arson Attacks in Easingwold

Date:   4^th July 2008

Firefighters from Easingwold Fire Station have recently attended several arson attacks in the town. The fires have been set in a number of disused buildings, vehicles and recently, a number of recycling bins were destroyed by fire. In the most recent attack, two young people were seen setting fire to the recycling bins at the rear of the Galtres Centre in the early hours of Thursday morning. Fire Crews from Easingwold arrived quickly and prevented the fire from spreading to nearby buildings and vehicles.

Station Manager Carl Boasman said:"Following a number of recent arson attacks, we are concerned that these individuals will continue to set fire to people's property. It is clear from their actions that they have no regard for people's property or safety."

He continues:" We are working with the Police to identify these individuals and bring them to justice. Arson is a serious criminal offence, which carries a custodial sentence. I advise business owners and homeowners to remain vigilant, and take steps to prevent an arson attack happening on their property."

He concludes:"We have no reason to believe that these individuals will target homes, however, I urge homeowners to be on their guard. Following some basic advice will ensure your home remains safe from fire."

Local Fire Crews are visiting homes and businesses in the area this weekend, giving advice about arson prevention. North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service offer a free Home Fire Risk Check to every home.

For more information, visit http://www.northyorksfire.gov.uk/ or call the Fire Safety Advice Line 01609 788545 to book your free check.

Steps to Prevent an Arson Attack

 Protect your property from arson by :

• Immobilising "wheelie" type bins at least 6m away from your building. Securing them on a fixed structure or in a compound may be the answer for you.
• Store rubbish awaiting collection in a secure compound away from your property.
• Make sure you don't allow waste materials to build up inside of your property.
• Hazards such as flammable liquids should be stored appropriately.
• Keep combustible materials away from boundaries where matches or cigarettes can be thrown into them.
•  Make sure doors, windows, gates, walls and fences are effectively secured especially when premises are closed at night or at the week-end.

General Good Housekeeping Tips

• Keep escape routes clear from rubbish and rubbish containers.
• Prohibit or restrict smoking to designated areas.
• If smoking is allowed provide suitable containers for smoker's waste materials.
• Make sure there are adequate means for fighting fire in storage areas.
• Check storage and waste collection areas periodically.
• Make sure any waste burning on site is carefully controlled and supervised.
• Prohibit or restrict access to storage areas.
• Keep matches, lighters and flammable fuels locked away when no-one is in the building.
• Consider installing security lighting and/or intruder alarms.
• Make sure waste materials or vehicles do not block fire escape doors on the inside and outside of the building.
• Keep machinery well maintained and free from a build up of grease.
• Keep kitchen areas and equipment well maintained and free from grease.
• Make sure everyone who uses or visits your property knows what to do if they discover a fire.

IF YOU HAVE ANY INFORMATION ABOUT SOMEONE DELIBERATELY STARTING FIRES CALL CRIMESTOPPERS ARSON ALERT ON 0800 555 111