Warning over wheelie bin fires

A SPATE of arson attacks involving wheelie bins in the Warrington area has prompted a “be on your guard” warning from police.
Areas around Sankey Valley Park – including Dallam, Callands and Old Hall – have been targeted by the vandals in recent weeks.
Now Cheshire Police and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, have issued a joint warning to residents in the area to be extra careful about where they store their wheelie bin – especially at night – to reduce the risk of it being targeted.
Police Community Support Officer Matt Kirkham, of Warrington West Neighbourhood Policing Unit, said: “We would urge residents to make sure that their wheelie bin is kept safe and out of sight, especially at night, to reduce the chances of it being targeted.
“Ideally they should store their bin at the back of their properties or, if this is not practical, then they should try and secure their bin by chaining it to something to stop it from being taken.
“We are working closely alongside Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and Warrington Borough Council to try and address the issue and we need the continued support of residents in the area.”
Residents are being urged to follow a few simple steps to reduce the risk of their wheelie bin being targeted:
* Try and store wheelie bins in secure areas at the back of your property.
* Where possible do not put wheelie bins out for emptying until the refuse collectors are due.
*Try not to overfill wheelie bins.
*Don’t allow rubbish to accumulate against buildings.
*Report incidents of rubbish accumulating in a particular area.
Terry McDermott, group manager for the Warrington area, of Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Unfortunately wheelie bins and rubbish are prime targets for arsonists. They are a huge drain on our resources as firefighters are continually being called out to deal with these deliberate fires.
“These types of fire pose a real threat to people, properties and the environment.
Anyone with any information in relation to deliberate fires in the Warrington area is asked to call Cheshire Police on 0845 458 0000 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.