Fire and police unite for safer Bonfire Night

Firefighters and police officers are uniting during the busiest time of year for the Fire Service – Bonfire Night. County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) have joined forces with Durham Constabulary in a unique partnership aimed at reducing fire-related incidents and anti-social behaviour during the fireworks season.

From October 16 through to November 8, a dedicated initiative will see one Police Constable (PC) and one Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) stationed at local fire stations across the region during several separate action evenings.

These officers will accompany fire crews to incidents, following behind fire engines in police vehicles, providing on-the-ground support at incidents.

Praising the partnership work, CDDFRS Community Safety Manager Kev Bell said: “The Bonfire Night period is the busiest time of year for our Service.

“As well as an increase in call outs to backyard bonfires gone wrong, increasingly we have seen a rise in anti-social behaviour.

“Sadly, a minority of young people are deliberately setting fires.

“And, in the worst cases, waiting for firefighters to attend, only to hurl abuse at them, or worse, throw objects.

“Luckily, no firefighters have been injured yet but last year one of our fire engines was badly damaged.”

He added: “Bonfire Night is a time of celebration, but it also brings increased risks. By working closely with our colleagues at Durham Constabulary, we’re taking a united approach to keeping our communities safe. This partnership allows us to respond quickly, deter anti-social behaviour, and reassure the public.”

Acting Inspector Steven Brown, of Durham Constabulary, said: “Neighbourhood teams across County Durham and Darlington will be working with our partners, including Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue and the Local Authority.

“We aim to engage with our communities to ensure the safety of the public over this bonfire period and will be conducting patrols to identify and highlight any dangerous bonfires that may place members of the community at risk of harm.

“We will also be conducting joint patrols with members from fire and rescue service to ensure our partners can carry out their role’s safely and prevent incidents of crime, disorder and antisocial behaviour.”

Residents are reminded to attend organised displays where possible and to follow safety advice when handling fireworks or building bonfires.

For updates throughout the Bonfire period, follow @CDDFRS and @DurhamPolice on social media.