Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding people in Swindon to take extra care with how they store their rubbish, after a recent spike in deliberate fires.
Over the last two months, the service has seen an increase in the number of small, deliberate fires – especially in the Penhill, Pinehurst and Blunsdon areas.
Group Manager Glyn Moody, Deputy Area Commander for Swindon, said: “Deliberate fires take up a large amount of our firefighters’ time, and take them away from being available to help someone whose life might be in danger. The recent increase in these fires is a real concern, and we would urge the local community to be vigilant and help us to prevent such arson.”
He added: “We would recommend not leaving out bags of rubbish and, wherever possible, not putting bins out until the morning of collection and bringing them back in once they have been emptied. If you see any suspicious activity in your area, please contact Wiltshire Police on their non-emergency number 101, or dial 999 if appropriate.”
More fire safety advice can be found at www.dwfire.org.uk/arson-prevention
