Sandwell Council has issued a fire safety warning following a series of fires across Sandwell and the West Midlands over the past week, several of which are believed to have been started deliberately.
Council teams were supporting emergency services at a fire in Brandhall on Thursday night. This was the latest in a string of outdoor fires on open land in Sandwell, creating serious risks to public safety and causing damage to property and wildlife.
Fires believed to be deliberate
A significant fire in Hateley Heath, West Bromwich, on Sunday resulted in three firefighters and a member of the public requiring medical treatment for heat exposure. The fire is believed to have been started deliberately.
On Monday afternoon, West Midlands Fire Service dealt with a park fire in Tipton that also appeared to have been started deliberately in several locations.
Warning from fire service chief
West Midlands Fire Service Chief Fire Officer Simon Tuhill warned that anyone who deliberately starts a fire could face a criminal record and be held responsible for damage. He said: "It has to stop now, before one of my firefighters or a member of the public is seriously injured, or worse."
Dry conditions following summer heatwaves have made fires spread faster and larger. Fire service resources are currently stretched responding to incidents across the region.
What residents should do
Barbecues and fires are not permitted in parks and open spaces in Sandwell. Officers are on patrol and violations can result in a £100 fine.
Anyone who sees a fire should call 999. Suspicious activity suggesting deliberate fire-starting should be reported to police on 101 or to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
