FIREFIGHTERS from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service have discovered a pattern of small deliberate fires in Crewe.

The incidents have involved rubbish, bins, vehicles and grass and most have been started behind buildings or wheelie bins.

The fires have occurred in the Lunt Avenue, Nantwich Road and West Street areas of Crewe.

Now residents are being urged to work with firefighters to tackle an increase in arson in the town.

Crewe fire station manager Paul Binyon said: “There seems to be a pattern forming as all these fires have occurred in the early hours of the morning.

“We are actively warning residents to be aware of rubbish accumulating outside their property or left unsecured as this is a serious fire hazard.

“This draws the attention of opportunist arsonists who may think they are causing little more than a nuisance by setting light to it.

“But in reality, bin and rubbish fires can quickly take hold and spread to buildings and vehicles, posing a major risk to life and property.”

Residents and businesses alike are being asked to ensure that bins, rubbish and packaging does not build up and is stored in a safe and secure area until collection.

Residents are also being asked to be vigilant of anyone acting suspiciously.

Colin Heyes, arson reduction manager, said: “We have had considerable success in recent years in reducing more serious deliberate fires involving property such as houses, business premises or vehicles.

“In addition, detection rates for serious arson incidents in Cheshire are well above the national average and are getting better every year thanks to our effective joint working with the police.

“Other partnership work, such as establishing a link between our control operators and town centre CCTV staff and securing vacant buildings that are at risk of arson, has also had a positive impact.”

In spite of this, the message from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service remains clear – tackling arson is everyone’s responsibility.

Colin added: “Businesses must help us to help them by making it as difficult as possible for arsonists to cause damage.

“Members of the public can help us by continuing to report any suspicious behaviour to the police or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Anyone who would like further information about reducing the risk of arson can visit cheshirefire.gov.uk.

Anyone who wishes to report a fire is reminded to call 999 in emergencies only. The number for general enquiries is 01606 868700.