Parents urged to speak to children about dangers of starting fires

As schools break up for summer, we are urging parents to talk to their children about the dangers of setting deliberate fires.

So far this month, we have been called to 137 deliberate outdoor fires across Staffordshire, with 76 taking place in the Stoke-on-Trent area.

For example, on Wednesday (15 July), three appliances were sent to Park Hall Country Park following reports of a fire.

Crews used backpacks to extinguish the fire and thankfully nobody was reported injured.

Head of Prevent, Protect and Partnership, Nick Jones, said: “We are experiencing extremely high demand across Staffordshire at the moment, partly due to the warm, dry spell we have had.

“I am urging parents to speak to their children about the dangers of setting deliberate fires.

“What can start out as a bit of fun can have devastating consequences, not only because lives are put at risk, but landscapes can be destroyed and our resources strained, meaning we can’t be at other ongoing incidents.

“Especially with the warm, dry weather, fires can spread quickly and become out of control.

“Help us keep Staffordshire safe this summer.”

For more outdoor fire safety tips, visit our website here.