Nairn police are warning of the dangers of deliberately setting fires and the safe use of disposable single use barbecues during the summer months.
Officers will carry out dedicated joint patrols with colleagues from the fire service along the town’s beach and links during the school holiday period.
These patrols are aimed at deterring the setting of deliberate fires in the area – and being in a position to quickly tackle any fires which are found.
Inspector Mike Middlehurst said: “Previous joint patrols with our colleagues from Scottish Fire and Rescue have proved very successful and we are pleased to be continuing this during the summer.
“Recklessly setting fires is incredibly dangerous – you have no idea how it may develop, especially given the very dry weather we have been experiencing recently.
“What starts out as piece of fun could very quickly develop into a serious situation putting people and property at risk, as well as causing significant long lasting environmental damage.
“Anyone planning to have a barbecue in the beach area should know how to do so safely and then dispose of them properly afterwards. I would also ask for the support of local retailers to make sure they highlight fire safety to anyone buying a barbecue.
“We would urge people not to interfere with firefighting equipment stored in the in the area of be the beach such as fire extinguishers – the consequences could be very serious if the staff at local businesses cannot access the equipment they need quickly. Members of the public should be aware not to obstruct fire hydrants or access roads.
“We want people to be able to enjoy the beaches in Nairn and do so safely. Our patrols are aimed at keeping people safe and we hope to achieve that with the support of the public and businesses in the area.”
Rab Middlemiss, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service Local Senior Officer for Highlands, said: “The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service has a very clear, zero tolerance approach to deliberate fire raising because it puts our communities at great risk.
“It presents a danger to life, property and the environment – not to mention the potential impact on businesses which are important to the economy.
“We will continue to work very closely with our police and local authority partners to ensure that those responsible are identified and dealt with accordingly.”
He added: “But I must point out that the best fire I ever fought was the one I prevented from happening in the first place.
“That is why we will continue to work hard to engage with our young people and our communities to ensure they are aware of the very real dangers.
“We have seen all too clearly the very devastating consequences of fire and if we can prevent just one person being hurt then it will be worth that effort.”
For more information on how you can keep your home and family safe, visit the Your Safety section of the website /your-safety/safer-summer.aspx
