Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service is responding to a surge in fire incidents, with crews attending the highest number of fires in five years. In March and April alone, the service saw a dramatic increase in calls, attending over 160 fires in March – a significant jump from the 111 reported during the same month last year. April witnessed even greater demand, with over 200 fire calls answered, compared to 131 in April 2023.
These figures contribute to a 13 per cent rise in incidents over the last 12 months, increasing from 1,690 to 1,911. Fire Safety Community leaders, expressed concern over the escalating numbers. “It is really concerning to see such a significant rise in fires in the last couple of months,” they stated. “We often see fires increase as the weather changes, with people getting their gardens ready for the summer. However, this is a sharp rise and certainly a cause for concern.”
Many of the fires originate within homes, often sparked by cooking accidents or faulty appliances. A recent incident in Huntingdonshire highlighted an unusual cause – a vanity mirror reflecting sunlight ignited a fire, causing substantial damage. However, the service also reports a worrying number of deliberately started fires, with around 200 outdoor fires recorded.
The service warned that intentionally starting a fire is a “serious crime” with potentially severe consequences. The service is also actively appealing to parents to discuss fire safety with their children, following reports of young people fleeing the scene of fires.
Things like making sure that lighters and matches are kept well out of reach of children, as well as making sure they stay clear of disused or derelict buildings, can also make a big difference
The Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service advises all residents to check their smoke alarms regularly and to be mindful of potential fire hazards both inside and outside their homes. They urge anyone with information regarding deliberately started fires to contact the authorities.
