Hotline to shop firebugs (From Clacton and Frinton Gazette)

Hotline to shop firebugs

3:23pm Friday 16th July 2010

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RESIDENTS in an arson hotspot are being urged to report firebugs using a confidential hotline.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service made the call following the latest arson attack in Jaywick which saw a bungalow in Brooklands Gardens destroyed on Tuesday.

The Brooklands and Grasslands area of Jaywick has the highest level of suspicious fires in Essex, but it is thought some residents are unwilling to report incidents for fear of reprisals.

Martin Avent, community safety officer, said residents should get in touch via the Firewatch hotline if they see someone setting a fire.

“The scheme is a safe way for people concerned about deliberate fires being started in their area,” he said.

“All of the information received is 100 per cent confidential and will be used to reduce arson in the community.

“Deliberate fires are a real menace, they can cause terrible damage to property, put lives at risk and tie up fire crews who could be needed at other incidents.

“Through this scheme we work with the community we serve to help cut down the number of deliberate fires and intervene when someone is at risk of becoming an arsonist.”

He added that the service will help residents keep their neighbourhood safer without fear of reprisals.

The service is also open to parents and carers who want to talk to someone about a fire-related issue with their own children.

The Firewatch telephone number is 01206 562545.

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