Residents warned over arson attacks
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Residents
at the eastern end of the Island will soon be getting leaflets
through their doors to warn them about a series of arson
attacks.
Fires in Warden Bay are worrying firefighters who have been
called out to 125 incidents in the area since April last year.
Two thirds of those fires are believed to have been started on
purpose.
Although all the incidents were dealt with quickly, crews fear
someone could be hurt if one gets out of control.
To tackle the issue, Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) will be
sending representatives into schools to talk to the children about
safety.
Leaflets will also be delivered showing burns suffered by
Sittingbourne firefighter Mat Barney while dealing with a grass
fire at Dartford Heath in 2005.
Sheppey watch manager Tony Fox said: “We believe these incidents
have been started deliberately and everyone needs to be very clear
that arson is a crime and certainly not harmless fun.
“Deliberate fires are destructive and dangerous. Those who cause
them are putting themselves, firefighters and others at serious
risk.
“It affects the environment, the community and it also has the
potential to divert valuable fire-fighting resources away from
other incidents such as house fires or road traffic collisions
where lives may be in danger.”
KFRS risk reduction manager Gary Stanford said residents could
play their part by disposing of rubbish and cigarettes carefully
and reporting any fires.
He added: “Those who deliberately start fires must be made aware
that, if they are caught, they face fines or several years in jail,
possibly a life sentence if someone is killed as a result of their
actions.”
Wednesday, February 08 2012
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