A SCOTTISH Emergency Service has pleaded with the public not to put them under unnecessary strain as Bonfire Night approaches.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service have launched the #BangOutOfOrder campaign to highlight the dangers and strain that deliberate fires can cause.
As well as endangering fire crews and people nearby, these fires also put unnecessary pressure on the emergency service, preventing them from attending other incidents.
Last year, firefighters attended over 1,350 fires, which were deliberately set, during the four weeks in the run up to Bonfire Night on November 5.
There have also been attacks on fire crews, during their busiest period of the year, threatening their safety and the safety of others.
Now, the service is highlighting these issues through the campaign and hope to encourage the public to support their drive to raise awareness.
Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Alasdair Perry, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s Head of Prevention and Protection, said: “We have a zero-tolerance approach to deliberate fire setting and anti-social behaviour involving the misuse of fireworks and other projectiles.
“To say these incidents are ‘bang out of order’ is an understatement.
“A deliberate fire can put property, resources and indeed lives at risk. We are working positively with young people and our partners to raise awareness of the very real dangers and consequences of such actions.”
He explained that the build up of rubbish – particularly cardboard or furniture – can present a fire risk and added that there are “simple measures” you can take to protect both people and property.
He said: “If you can, store your waste in a safe, locked location such as a garage or shed. If you must store it outdoors – keep it away from the property if possible.
“If you are keeping anything inside, store it away from heat sources and open flames, or electrical outlets and equipment.”
Working in partnership with schools and Police Scotland, the Fire Service is ensuring that young people understand the risks of anti-social behaviour.
Addressing the 12 attacks on crew last years, he said: “On any night of the year an attack on crews responding to incidents is unacceptable, but to have twelve on our busiest night of the year puts everyone in danger.
“We know it’s a very small minority of people who engage in anti-social behaviour, but there’s no question it can also impact on our firefighters, Operations Control colleagues and our partners too.
“It’s time to bring an end to this type of anti-social behaviour and make sure firefighters – and our emergency service partners – can do their job and keep the communities they serve safe.”
