Fire safety tips issued for December amid increased holiday fire risks

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsResearchSafety

Increased fire risks during the festive period

The Local Government Association (LGA) and the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) have issued a reminder about fire safety precautions as the Christmas season sees a rise in fire-related incidents.

According to Home Office figures analysed by NFCC, the likelihood of a fire in England increases significantly in December, with a 53% higher chance of fires on Christmas Day compared to an average day.

December also sees a 10% rise in accidental home fires compared to other months.

The NFCC and LGA are urging households to take simple steps to mitigate risks, such as using the Online Home Fire Safety Check (OHFSC) tool, which provides tailored advice for fire prevention.

Fire safety advice for festive decorations and lights

Households are reminded to be cautious with festive lights, decorations, and candles.

NFCC advises against overloading sockets, using damaged lights, or leaving lights switched on when properties are unoccupied.

Candles should be placed away from flammable items like decorations and curtains.

Residents are also encouraged to inspect Christmas gifts such as electrical devices and ensure they display CE or UKCA safety marks.

Electrical fires pose particular risks during the holiday season, with cooking fires being a primary cause.

NFCC highlights the importance of staying attentive while in the kitchen.

E-bike and e-scooter safety during the holidays

The growing popularity of e-bikes, e-bike conversion kits, and e-scooters has led to additional safety warnings.

NFCC advises ensuring these items comply with UK safety regulations and are purchased from reputable sellers.

Residents are cautioned against storing or charging these devices in hallways or escape routes, as this could obstruct exits during emergencies.

Importance of working smoke alarms in homes

NFCC reminds all households to have working smoke alarms on every level of the property and test them regularly.

Landlords are legally required to provide smoke alarms in rental properties, and renters should ensure they are operational.

Cllr Frank Biederman, Chair of the LGA’s Fire Services Management Committee, said: “The Christmas period is a time for celebrating and relaxing – which means fire safety advice is especially important to make sure everyone celebrating can enjoy themselves.”

Rick Hylton, Chair of NFCC’s Prevention Committee, added: “A few minutes completing an Online Home Fire Safety Check and being alert to the risks in your home or the home of your loved ones can help you have a peaceful and safe Christmas.”

Fire safety tips issued for December amid increased holiday fire risks: Summary

The NFCC and LGA have highlighted an increased fire risk during December, with Home Office data revealing a higher likelihood of fires on Christmas Day and throughout the month.

Advice includes using the OHFSC tool, being cautious with electrical devices and decorations, and ensuring smoke alarms are operational.

Additional warnings have been issued regarding e-bikes and e-scooters, emphasising compliance with UK safety standards.

Both organisations stress the importance of fire safety measures to ensure a safe holiday season.

Mental health-related absences cost Avon Fire and Rescue over £841,000

by Featured NewsHealth and SafetyResearch

Mental health absences reported by Avon Fire and Rescue

Avon Fire and Rescue Service (AFRS) has reported more than 5,800 staff absences attributed to mental health issues over the past three years.

According to data obtained by Accident Claims Advice (ACA) through a Freedom of Information Request, AFRS staff lost a total of 5,858 days or shifts between 2021 and 2024 due to mental health reasons.

Anxiety and depression accounted for 2,133 of these days, while post-traumatic stress resulted in the loss of 560 days.

Impact of mental health absences on service costs

The financial impact of these mental health-related absences is estimated to have cost AFRS approximately £841,038 over three years.

For the 2021/22 period, AFRS calculated that 2,086 days lost to mental health cost the service £286,768.56.

This figure decreased to £244,611.90 the following year but increased again to £309,657.60 in 2023/24 as daily staff costs rose.

Fire Brigades Union calls for action

Matt Wrack, General Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union (FBU), commented on the data: “We are facing a mental health crisis in the fire and rescue service.

“Since attending traumatic incidents is an unavoidable part of the job for firefighters, mental health support is vital.”

Wrack also highlighted variations in mental health provision across the UK fire services and linked the issue to a decade of cuts: “To address this mental health crisis, we need central government to provide the investment needed to rebuild the service.”

Staff ill health departures in Avon Fire and Rescue

The AFRS data also revealed that in 2021/22, 23% of staff departures were due to ill health, which may include mental health reasons.

In subsequent years, no departures were officially recorded as related to health in 2022/23, and only one staff member left due to ill health in 2023/24.

Mental health-related absences cost Avon Fire and Rescue over £841,000: Summary

Avon Fire and Rescue Service has reported 5,858 staff days lost to mental health-related absences between 2021 and 2024.

Conditions such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress were the primary causes.

The financial impact of these absences was estimated at £841,038 over three years.

Daily costs per staff member rose from £137.44 in 2021/22 to £153.60 in 2023/24.

The Fire Brigades Union highlighted the need for improved mental health support for firefighters and called for increased government funding to address the crisis.

AFRS data also showed varying rates of staff departures due to ill health in recent years.

Survey sheds light on fire risk assessor competency and capacity in England

by Featured NewsResearchSafety

Key findings highlight competency and capacity of fire risk assessors

The Home Office has published findings from the survey Fire Risk Assessors in England: A Survey of Competency, Capacity, and Experience.

Conducted between 6 July 2023 and 4 September 2023, the study aimed to address knowledge gaps surrounding fire risk assessors (FRAs) in England.

The survey received 1,404 responses, with 1,272 from assessors operating in England.

It examined the functional characteristics, competency, and capacity of FRAs.

Results indicated that 87% of respondents were male, and 65% were aged 50 years or older.

Approximately 46% of FRAs were certificated or registered by schemes, while 40% belonged to professional bodies but were uncertificated.

A key barrier to certification cited by respondents was cost (47%).

Competency levels and training practices among FRAs

The survey explored FRAs’ self-reported competency, experience, and training.

Findings showed that 63% had over five years of experience, and 84% had undertaken training specifically related to fire risk assessment under the Fire Safety Order.

However, 50% of respondents reported not participating in formal refresher training, relying instead on industry updates to remain current.

Certification was linked to higher self-assessed competency, with 58% of certificated FRAs rating themselves at an “advanced” level compared to 17% of non-members.

Respondents from fee-earning roles were more likely to report undertaking annual refresher training (22%) compared to in-house FRAs (13%).

Workload and assessment capacity of FRAs

The study assessed FRAs’ workload to gauge capacity within the sector.

Results varied significantly, with 53% of respondents conducting fewer than 50 assessments per year.

Conversely, 10% reported completing more than 250 assessments annually.

Fee-earning FRAs were shown to conduct more assessments, including for higher and more complex buildings, compared to their in-house counterparts.

While 88% of respondents assessed buildings under 11 metres, fewer surveyed FRAs assessed buildings over 18 metres (34%).

Differences between certificated, professional body members, and non-members

The findings revealed disparities in competency and capacity based on FRA certification and professional body membership.

Certificated FRAs reported higher competency levels and greater capacity to conduct fire risk assessments.

Specifically, 26% of certificated FRAs undertook annual refresher training, compared to 13% of professional body members and 9% of non-members.

Additionally, certificated FRAs were more likely to assess complex buildings and conduct over 100 assessments annually.

Fire risk assessors in England: a survey of competency, capacity, and experience: Summary

The Fire Risk Assessors in England: A Survey of Competency, Capacity, and Experience highlights key insights into the role, competency, and workload of fire risk assessors in England.

The survey indicates that most respondents are experienced, with 63% having over five years in the role.

However, gaps remain, particularly in refresher training, as 50% reported not undertaking formal updates.

Certification was linked to higher self-assessed competency, with certificated FRAs more likely to assess complex buildings and complete a higher volume of assessments.

The report underscores variations between in-house and fee-earning FRAs, as well as certificated, professional body members, and non-members.

It provides evidence to support future considerations for improving competency verification and capacity within the fire risk assessment sector in England.

Call for papers issued for the 24th International Water Mist Conference

by Breaking NewsEventsFire SuppressionResearch

IWMA issues call for papers for Manchester conference in 2025

The International Water Mist Association (IWMA) has issued a call for papers for the 24th International Water Mist Conference (IWMC2025), which will be held in Manchester, UK, on 24th and 25th September 2025.

Abstract submissions are now open, with a deadline set for 15th April 2025.

According to IWMA, the conference will focus on presenting case studies on the first day and discussions on science and research on the second.

Submissions will also be considered for the Ragnar Wighus Award, recognising the best Ph.D. thesis on water mist.

IWMA CEO Bettina McDowell stated: “We have brought most of the key dates one month forward to be able to publish the programme earlier and thus apply for CPD accreditation.”

Key details for participants and sponsors

In addition to the call for papers, sponsors can begin booking tabletops for the exhibition running alongside the conference.

IWMA noted that all required forms are available on their website.

Ticket sales for the event will open on 15th April 2025, with early bird discounts available until 1st August.

Tickets for the first day only will also be offered.

Ragnar Wighus Award submission deadline

Submissions for the Ragnar Wighus Award are due by 31st March 2025.

The award will be presented to the author of the best Ph.D. thesis on water mist, with the winner invited to present their research at the conference.

The IWMA scientific council, chaired by Bogdan Raciega of the Baltic Fire Laboratory, will evaluate the entries.

Call for papers issued for the 24th International Water Mist Conference: Summary

The IWMA has issued a call for papers for the 24th International Water Mist Conference, to be held in Manchester on 24th and 25th September 2025.

Abstracts must be submitted by 15th April 2025.

The conference will feature case studies, scientific discussions, and an exhibition.

Submissions for the Ragnar Wighus Award, recognising exceptional Ph.D. theses on water mist, are due by 31st March.

Early bird tickets will be available starting 15th April, with discounts ending on 1st August.

ROCKWOOL details 65-year durability of stone wool insulation

by Featured NewsPassiveResearch

Technical bulletin highlights long-term thermal performance of stone wool insulation

According to ROCKWOOL, its newly published Technical Bulletin reveals that stone wool insulation retains its thermal properties for over 65 years in external wall systems.

The document outlines research from independent studies and real-world testing, including findings from the European Mineral Wool Manufacturers’ Association (Eurima) on mineral wool insulation.

One highlighted study was conducted by the Danish Technological Institute (DTI) on ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation recovered from a 1958 hangar at Copenhagen Airport.

The bulletin provides insights into how durability is defined in terms of as-built insulation performance.

It also demonstrates how ROCKWOOL products meet long-term performance expectations under real-world conditions.

Practical applications for specifiers and designers

James Francis, Product Manager for General Building Insulation at ROCKWOOL UK, commented on the relevance of the findings for building professionals.

Francis said: “This Technical Bulletin provides designers with credible evidence when considering the long-term performance of buildings post-occupancy.”

He explained that insulation’s role goes beyond the initial design phase, focusing on how it performs decades after installation.

The bulletin also connects findings to modern design standards, offering actionable insights for specifiers and designers.

Independent testing supports durability claims

The bulletin summarises real-world testing conducted on ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation.

The Danish Technological Institute’s study on materials recovered from Copenhagen Airport highlighted the ability of the product to maintain its properties over several decades.

This research aligns with broader findings from Eurima, which examined mineral wool insulation in various applications.

The technical findings strengthen the case for using stone wool insulation in buildings requiring long-term thermal performance.

Aligning durability with energy efficiency goals

ROCKWOOL’s Technical Bulletin reinforces the link between insulation durability and energy efficiency.

The company highlighted how retaining thermal performance can help reduce heating and cooling requirements in buildings.

The report also positions durability as a critical factor in meeting current energy standards, encouraging specifiers to consider long-term performance when choosing insulation materials.

ROCKWOOL publishes bulletin on stone wool insulation durability: Summary

ROCKWOOL has released a Technical Bulletin detailing research on the durability of its stone wool insulation.

The findings demonstrate that the product retains its thermal performance for more than 65 years in external wall systems.

Independent studies, including research from Eurima and the Danish Technological Institute, provide evidence supporting these claims.

The bulletin highlights how these findings are relevant for modern building standards, offering actionable insights for specifiers and designers.

James Francis of ROCKWOOL UK noted the importance of considering insulation performance beyond the design and handover phases, focusing on its role in reducing heating and cooling requirements over time.

Howler Hot Topics event tackles fire safety in construction

by EventsResearchSafety

Fire safety compliance challenges in welfare areas

On 26 November 2024, Howler hosted its first Howler Hot Topics roundtable at London’s Shard.

The event, organised in collaboration with partitioning specialist Westgate, focused on fire safety compliance in construction and refurbishment projects.

The discussion centred on the Joint Code of Practice on the Protection from Fire of Construction Sites and Buildings Undergoing Renovation (JCoP).

This code highlights the importance of fire safety in welfare areas and site accommodation, which are often overlooked but crucial for compliance.

Collaboration in fire safety standards

Attendees shared insights on balancing strict fire safety planning with practical solutions.

Gary Askew, Managing Director of Howler UK, stated: “Collaboration is key to advancing fire safety standards.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Westgate, whose expertise in fire safety partitioning complements our own solutions for fit-out projects.”

The event provided a platform for professionals to discuss how to address complex fire safety issues while driving industry progress.

Key discussions and industry impact

The roundtable featured conversations on real-world challenges, actionable solutions, and the need to prioritise fire safety during all construction phases.

A whitepaper summarising these discussions is now available on Howler’s website.

The success of this event has spurred plans for a second Howler Hot Topics roundtable, which will take place in northern England early in 2025.

Howler’s approach to fire safety

Howler has nearly 40 years of expertise in temporary fire safety solutions.

Through initiatives like the Howler Hot Topics series, the company aims to create forums to address fire safety challenges and improve safety standards across the construction industry.

Howler Hot Topics Whitepaper Summary

The whitepaper summarises the discussions from the inaugural Howler Hot Topics event held in November 2024, focusing on fire safety in site accommodation during construction or refurbishment projects.

The discussions addressed two critical aspects of fire safety: the legal obligation to protect lives and the broader importance of safeguarding property and livelihoods.

Key insights included practical challenges in adhering to the Joint Code of Practice (JCoP) and the importance of adopting a risk-based approach.

Insurers stressed the need for “best endeavours” and highlighted the value of a thorough Fire Risk Assessment.

Three recurring themes emerged: early planning, proactive communication, and ongoing collaboration.

Specific challenges discussed included:

  1. Fire compartmentation for site accommodation: Practical and cost barriers to achieving 30-minute fire resistance. Risk-based mitigations such as automatic detection were proposed.
  2. Fire Brigade access: Addressing issues for multi-storey projects exceeding height limits under JCoP.
  3. Contractor competency: Emphasising the need for verified skills and construction-specific fire risk assessment expertise.
  4. Fire exits and protective coverings: Meeting safety requirements while considering practicality and cost.
  5. Lithium battery risks: Promoting awareness and quality control to reduce fire risks from charging equipment.

Participants also stressed the importance of involving clients, building management, and insurers early in the process to align strategies effectively.

The insights and recommendations aim to help industry professionals navigate fire safety complexities and enhance compliance practices.

Howler hosts inaugural fire safety event at London’s Shard: Summary

Howler launched its first Howler Hot Topics event on 26 November 2024 at London’s Shard, focusing on fire safety in construction.

Organised with Westgate, the roundtable discussed compliance challenges in welfare areas and site accommodation under the JCoP guidelines.

Attendees explored solutions to balance safety planning with practical implementation.

Managing Director Gary Askew emphasised the importance of collaboration in improving fire safety standards.

A whitepaper summarising the event is now available online.

Following its success, a second roundtable is planned for early 2025 in northern England.

Flammability of recycled plastic pellets studied by South African researchers

by Featured NewsFire EngineeringResearch

Exploring the fire behaviour of recycled plastic

A recent study published in the journal Fire and Materials has evaluated the fire behaviour of recycled plastic pellets.

The research was conducted by Courtney Devine, Natalia Florez-Quiroz, and Prof. Richard Walls from Stellenbosch University’s Fire Engineering Research Unit (FireSUN) and co-authored by Carlo Kuhn from Ignis Fire Testing.

The study, titled Fire Parameters of Recycled Plastic Pellets, investigates critical properties such as ignition time, heat release rates, flame spread, and smoke production to understand the fire risks associated with recycled plastics.

Findings revealed that factors such as material composition, processing methods, and additives significantly influence fire performance.

The research underscores the importance of implementing stringent fire safety measures for industries relying on recycled plastics, such as manufacturing and construction.

The study balances the rising demand for sustainability with the necessity for robust safety standards.

Academic and industry collaboration enhances fire safety research

The study highlights the collaboration between FireSUN and Ignis Fire Testing.

The partnership bridges academic research and industry practices to address practical challenges in fire safety.

Carlo Kuhn from Ignis Fire Testing said: “This collaboration bridges academia and industry to address real-world challenges.

“As the demand for recycled materials rises, understanding their fire behaviour is essential to ensure safety standards are met without compromising sustainability goals.”

Ignis Fire Testing supports initiatives such as training postgraduate students, co-authoring academic articles, and advancing fire safety knowledge.

Dirk Streicher, CEO of Ignis Fire Testing, added: “Our facilities and expertise enable us to support innovative research projects like this one.

“By contributing to studies like these, we’re not only addressing current safety concerns but also shaping the future of fire safety in a more sustainable world.”

Promoting South Africa’s role in fire safety innovation

The research highlights South Africa’s contributions to fire safety and sustainability.

Prof. Richard Walls, head of FireSUN, emphasised the global impact of local expertise.

“Research like this demonstrates South Africa’s capability to lead on a global stage,” said Walls.

“It’s exciting to see local expertise pushing boundaries and making a meaningful impact on fire safety and sustainability worldwide.”

The study not only focuses on the flammability of recycled plastics but also strengthens South Africa’s position as a contributor to international fire safety research.

Summary: flammability of recycled plastic pellets studied by South African researchers

A study published in Fire and Materials evaluates the fire behaviour of recycled plastic pellets, highlighting the need for safety protocols in industries using these materials.

Conducted by researchers from Stellenbosch University’s FireSUN and Ignis Fire Testing, the research examines ignition time, heat release rates, and other key parameters.

The partnership between FireSUN and Ignis demonstrates how academic and industry collaboration can advance fire safety while addressing sustainability goals.

Prof. Richard Walls of FireSUN praised the study’s global impact, showcasing South Africa’s leadership in fire engineering research.

For the full article, visit: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/fam.3248

UK regulator addresses fire safety risks in construction and consumer products

by ResearchSafety

OPSS highlights fire safety risks in construction materials and appliances

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has detailed its actions addressing fire safety risks across the UK in its 2023-2024 delivery report.

The document outlines efforts to mitigate risks in consumer products and construction materials, reflecting the regulator’s focus on public safety.

Key actions include intervention in a national incident concerning faulty gas hob elbow joints linked to fires.

Approximately 100,000 units were found to pose safety risks.

OPSS issued Suspension and Compliance Notices to prevent further supply and enforced corrective measures on manufacturers.

The regulator also worked on enhancing safety standards in construction products, including fire doors and insulation materials, following updated agreements with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).

E-bike and e-scooter battery safety prioritised

OPSS has addressed the growing fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries in e-bikes and e-scooters.

According to its report, these batteries have been linked to several hundred fires in recent years, causing fatalities and injuries.

The regulator removed dangerous e-bike batteries from the market and issued guidance for safer usage.

It collaborated with stakeholders, including fire services and local authorities, to increase awareness of battery safety.

The actions were part of a broader study on the hazards associated with these transport modes.

Online marketplaces targeted for unsafe products

Unsafe products sold online were a significant focus for OPSS during the year.

Test purchases identified fire hazards in items such as baby products, fancy dress costumes, and electrical goods.

Non-compliant products were removed from online marketplaces, and enforcement actions were taken where necessary.

OPSS also engaged with online marketplace operators to strengthen their compliance with UK safety regulations.

The regulator emphasised its expectation that marketplaces ensure products sold on their platforms meet safety standards.

Construction products under scrutiny

The regulator continued its focus on fire safety in construction materials, aligning with reforms following the Grenfell Tower fire.

Investigations targeted products such as insulation, fire-retardant acoustic tiles, and fire doors.

Several cases led to Prohibition Notices and product recalls, with manufacturers required to improve their quality assurance processes.

The regulator also conducted market surveillance on plywood with enhanced fire performance claims, resulting in a voluntary product recall by a manufacturer after testing revealed non-compliance.

UK regulator addresses fire safety risks in construction and consumer products: Summary

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has focused on mitigating fire risks in its 2023-2024 delivery report.

It addressed safety concerns in gas hobs, e-bike batteries, online products, and construction materials.

Actions included issuing compliance notices, product recalls, and market engagement to enhance fire safety standards.

Collaboration with stakeholders and targeted enforcement contributed to improving product safety across various sectors in the UK.

Call for papers: Fire Australia 2025 invites industry professionals to share fire protection advancements

by EventsFeatured NewsResearch

Submit your paper for Fire Australia 2025 in Sydney

Fire Australia, the largest fire protection conference and tradeshow in the Southern Hemisphere, is calling for paper submissions ahead of its 2025 event in Sydney.

According to Fire Australia, the event brings together local and international experts to present research, technologies, and practical applications in fire protection.

The submission deadline is Friday 13 December 2024, with selections based on originality, technical relevance, and innovation.

The program committee is particularly seeking contributions on topics such as drones, artificial intelligence (AI), and emerging fire protection technologies.

Other areas of interest include risk analysis tools, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and fire modelling for bushfire and structural fire scenarios.

Focus on innovation and practical applicability

The conference prioritises innovation and real-world application.

FPA Australia invites submissions from a diverse range of professionals, including academics, researchers, and suppliers, with an emphasis on advancing fire protection practices.

Proposals should highlight how technologies like AI improve fire detection, prediction, and response.

Case studies demonstrating the use of drones for inspection and monitoring, or the integration of GIS for emergency planning, are highly encouraged.

Papers showcasing advancements in IoT, sensors, or other technologies for evaluating and enhancing building fire safety measures are also sought.

These should emphasise practical outcomes, such as improving safety and operational efficiency.

Selection criteria for submissions

Submissions will be evaluated for originality, clarity, and potential industry impact.

The committee is particularly interested in innovative methodologies and solutions that address current challenges in fire protection.

To increase acceptance chances, presenters are encouraged to include experimental data, case studies, or real-world results.

Papers must be well-structured and align with the conference theme of innovation in fire safety.

Notification of accepted submissions will be communicated by Friday 10 January 2025.

Presenters will have 30 to 45 minutes to deliver their papers, including time for audience questions.

Application process and requirements

Abstracts must not exceed 500 words and should be accompanied by a biography of no more than 100 words.

All authors and their affiliations must be clearly listed.

Submissions should include a clear title and meet the conference’s deadline of Friday 13 December 2024.

Selected presentations will be scheduled to align with the event program.

Fire Australia encourages the fire protection community to participate in shaping the future of the industry by contributing to this significant knowledge-sharing platform.

Call for papers: Fire Australia 2025 invites industry professionals to share fire protection advancements: Summary

Fire Australia 2025 is accepting paper submissions for its upcoming conference in Sydney, with a deadline of Friday 13 December 2024.

The event, the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, seeks innovative research and applications in fire protection.

Key topics include drones, AI, GIS, fire modelling, and technologies for improving building fire safety.

Papers will be evaluated on originality, technical relevance, and potential industry impact.

Notifications of acceptance will be issued by Friday 10 January 2025.

Fire services address high levels of deliberate fires across England and Wales

by Featured NewsResearch

Deliberate fires impact emergency resources in the UK

Fire and rescue services across England and Wales have responded to hundreds of thousands of fire incidents since 2019, with a substantial proportion of these being deliberate fires, according to Public Interest Lawyers.

The investigation highlights regional disparities in deliberate fire incidents, ranging from 5% of cases in Lincolnshire to 60% in West Yorkshire.

National data shows that UK fire services attended 600,324 incidents in the year ending March 2024, a 3.6% decrease compared to the previous year.

Of these, 138,977 were fires, marking a 22% decrease year-on-year.

However, deliberate fires remain a persistent challenge.

Public Interest Lawyers stated: “Deliberately set fires are dangerous and are a criminal offence.

“They waste time, money and keep fire crews away from real emergencies.”

Regional statistics show variation in fire trends

The London Fire Brigade recorded 85,749 fire incidents over five years, with 15% of these identified as deliberate.

Croydon had the highest borough incidents with 3,730.

Deliberate fires caused 532 injuries during the period, peaking in 2023/24.

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service attended 10,464 incidents, with 40% deliberate.

Western District saw the highest number of incidents at 1,727.

Injuries from deliberate fires totalled 52, with the highest annual count of 18 in 2023/24.

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service recorded 46,829 fire incidents, of which 60% were deliberate.

Bradford had the most incidents, logging 4,465.

Deliberate fires caused 287 injuries, with 67 recorded in 2019/20.

Arson continues to pose risks to property and life

Deliberate fires include incidents involving bins, skips, fly-tipped waste, derelict buildings, and dry grass.

These fires lead to property damage, homelessness, and injuries.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service attended 8,501 fire incidents since 2019, 25% of which were deliberate.

Ipswich logged 1,072 incidents, the highest in the region.

In Lincolnshire, fire services responded to 40,492 incidents, with 5% deliberate.

Deliberate fires caused 79 injuries, peaking in 2023/24.

East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service attended 15,817 incidents, with 25% deliberate.

Preston Circus station area recorded the most incidents, with 1,495.

Public Interest Lawyers noted: “Victims of deliberate fires may lose all their property, be made homeless or be seriously injured.”

Efforts to mitigate arson and its impact

Cleveland Fire Brigade recorded 45,340 fire incidents over the past five years, with 45% being deliberate.

In Avon, fire services attended 54,038 incidents, with 12% deliberate.

Both regions highlight the need for ongoing public awareness and prevention measures.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service managed 25,554 incidents since 2019, with 40% deliberate.

Preston logged the highest number of incidents, with 3,148.

Injuries caused by deliberate fires reached 260, peaking at 75 in 2019/20.

Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service recorded 9,387 incidents, with 30% deliberate.

Central Ward had the highest local incidents at 385.

Injuries from deliberate fires totalled 25.

Public Interest Lawyers provide advice to those affected by arson through a 24-hour helpline.

Fire services address high levels of deliberate fires across England and Wales: summary

An investigation by Public Interest Lawyers highlights the prevalence of deliberate fires across England and Wales.

Fire services have attended thousands of incidents over the past five years, with deliberate fires accounting for between 5% and 60% of cases depending on the region.

London, West Yorkshire, and Leicestershire recorded some of the highest numbers of incidents and injuries.

Deliberate fires often involve outdoor waste and abandoned buildings, posing risks to property and life.

Public Interest Lawyers offer support to victims through a dedicated helpline.