Arson spree sparks warning

Firefighters douse down after a fire on Chseterfield Road North thught to have been started deliberately.

Crews from Mansfield and throughout Nottinghamshire tackled a number of fires that are believed to have been started deliberately last weekend.

On Sunday July 19 crews from Mansfield, Ashfield and Highfields were called to a derelict building blaze on Chesterfield Road North.

Two days before, firefighters from Mansfield and Ashfield dealt with an incident in Oxclose Woods, Debdale Lane that included a number of small fires set in different places within the area.

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service risk reduction officer Louise Robinson said: “Lighting fires deliberately - whether it be as a campfire or for any reason in a public place/derelict building is dangerous.

“Not only can you cause yourself harm if the fire gets out of control but you could also put the public and emergency personnel lives in danger, there is also an impact on the environment and wildlife that exists in that area”.

Since the two incidents, Louise and other members of the NFRS Community Safety team have been out in the area putting up signs encouraging people to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if they have any information about these – or any other – incidents.

She added: “Even smaller fires take up our time and resources and if we are dealing with a small, unnecessarily lit blaze in Oxclose Woods we may not be able to get to a more serious, life-threatening incident as fast, leaving members of the community vulnerable.”

NFRS also recommend that as well as being vigilant, people with children talk to them regarding the dangers of fire setting and arson. If any parent is concerned that their child may be fire setting, support and education can be provided to families at their local fire station.