Deliberate Fires

Deliberate fires, including refuse bins, rubbish and fly tipped materials are a growing problem for the fire and rescue service. The cost and time involved through fire and rescue attendance is a constant concern, and with the help of the public Strathclyde Fire & Rescue aim to reduce these unnecessary incidences.

In Scotland, over 22,000 fires involving rubbish and refuse are attended on an annual basis.  This costs Scottish Fire and Rescue Services over £45 million.

Bins and rubbish skips from commercial and household waste together with illegal dumping of waste materials provides a ready source of combustible materials for opportunistic fire setters, and as a result fire vandalism is on the increase.

Deliberate fires also contribute to health and environmental issues, with the toxic combustible products adding significantly to climate change and undermining attempts to improve local air quality.

How the public can help

If you witness any fly tipping or see an accumulation of rubbish and refuse please report these direct to the national 'Dumb Dumpers' Stop Line operated by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency 0845 230 4090.

For more information you can view the website www.dumbdumpers.org.

Anyone who has information about persons involved in fire setting or fire vandalism within their neighbourhood should contact Strathclyde Police or 'Crimestoppers Scotland' 0800 555 111.

For more information you can view the website www.crimestoppers-uk.org.