A decline in deliberate fire-setting across Clackmannanshire has been welcomed by the area’s senior fire officer.
Clacks witnessed a reduction in both intentional primary and secondary fires between April 2018 and March 2019.
During the 12 month window, instances of deliberate primary fires fell from 24 to 15 and secondary fires reduced from 77 to 59.
According to the area’s Local Senior Officer, Area Commander Mark Bryce, firefighters are committed to education and shining a light on the dangers of fire-setting.
AC Bryce said: “Education remains one of the most effective tools we have in tackling deliberate fire-setting.
“It’s a tiny percentage of people in every community who behave in such a way, but showing everyone the dangers of starting a fire and the lasting impact deliberate incidents can have on communities is an effective preventative method.
“Ultimately, we will always strive to remind communities that fire incidents blot the landscape and impact on communities.
"It's not a nice place for people to live and work when they have burnt fire debris and areas left destroyed by unwanted behaviour.
"Think about the impact on the area you and your family are living in - it's your community, why would you damage it?”
Every day across Scotland firefighters are forced to make unnecessary blue light journeys in response to unwanted fire alarm signals.
These activations can occur for a number of reasons including faulty equipment.
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service is committed to working towards reducing unwanted fire alarm signals (UFAS).
Between April 2018 and March of this year, 227 such alarm activations occurred in Clackmannanshire – a reduction of 14 on the previous year.
According to Group Commander Mark Duffy, head of Prevention and Protection for the area, driving down UFAS numbers is a key priority for local and national fire crews.
He said: “It’s hugely important that people are aware of the consequences of firefighters making unnecessary blue light journeys.
“Ensuring that businesses and duty holders manage their fire alarm systems effectively can help us reduce the number of unwanted fire alarm signals.
“UFAS can result in lost revenue for businesses and can present a risk of staff becoming complacent.
“Working with partners and enlightening them on the importance of our work around this subject is crucial.”
