Drop in the number of deliberate fires in Ayrshire during lockdown
Figures from last year are down by around a third.
Lockdown could be the reason behind a big drop in the number of deliberate fires in Ayrshire.
Firefighters were called to a total of 242 incidents of deliberate fire-raising here between March and April 2020. That is around 100 fewer than the year before and a decrease of 29%.
The figures are released as the service launches its annual Spring Safety campaign.
Area Commander Ian McMeekin is the Local Senior Officer for East, North and South Ayrshire, he said: “While any reduction in the number of deliberate fires is welcomed, we simply cannot be complacent.
“Deliberate fires have the potential to cause injury and even death or cause devastating damage to our environment and properties.
“One deliberate fire is one too many – they are a needless drain on emergency service resources at a difficult time.”
Most reported fires took place outdoors and were set in either grassland or rubbish and refuse, however some incidents also included vehicles and even buildings.
The significant reduction also coincided with Scotland’s first Covid-19 lockdown which introduced restrictions on movement which continue into Spring 2021.
LSO McMeekin said: “Last year we saw restrictions put in place on social movement, and this year is no different as we continue to tackle this pandemic.
“As well as limits on how far people can travel, we also know that schools, clubs and community groups are affected or unable to open due to Covid-19 restrictions.
“Our firefighters and community action teams have been and will continue to work extremely hard to engage with the public and promote safety messages.
“But as we cannot conduct school visits or engage with young people directly through clubs and groups, I would ask parents, guardians and carers to help by making sure that children and young people are aware of the risks and consequences of deliberate fire setting.
“It is vital we continue to remind people that deliberate fire setting is a crime and a criminal record can affect future life and job opportunities – a price that can be easily avoided.”
Anyone with information about deliberate fire-raising should contact the free and confidential Crimestoppers helpline on 0800 555 111.