Police in Shirebrook warn youngsters about the dangers of starting fires

Officers from the Shirebrook Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team are warning youngsters about the dangers of starting fires following a number of recent incidents in the area.

Since the start of May police have had three calls about groups of youngsters, aged between 10 and 16, gathering in wooded areas, collecting wood and starting fires.

The most recent was at around 5.30pm on Monday, May 15, at an area near to Shirebrook park and Shirebrook Leisure Centre.

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Sgt. Mark Church of the Shirebrook Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “While these fires have been small, starting them is dangerous under any circumstances as they could easily spread and cause further damage to the area, or harm to the youngsters involved.

“We would ask parents and carers to ensure that their children know about and understand the potentially tragic consequences deliberate fires can have, as well as the impact for responding emergency services.”

Officers on the team are carrying out patrols, and urging anyone with information about those involved to contact them.

They are also working with Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service and local schools to raise awareness of the issue, the dangers and consequences.

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Anyone with information should contact the Shirebrook Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101, or send them a message online at www.derbyshire.police.uk.

You can report incidents of crime, damage or anti-social behaviour to police on 101, except in an emergency when you should always dial 999.