Firefighters' plea to keep children at home after grass fire in Sunderland

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service was called to grassland at the rear of Linskill, in Hollycarrside, at 1.15pm today, Thursday, April 2.

A crew from Farringdon Community Fire Station was sent to put it out with a hose reel, with the blaze under control within 15 minutes.

The incident, near Tunstall Hills, was reported after a member of the public tried to put it out themselves.

The service has confirmed the fire was started by children, at a time when they should be at home under coronavirus lockdown guidance.

This afternoon’s callout follows another grass fire in North Hylton on Monday and other similar attacks elsewhere in recent days.

In social media messages, the service said: “The grass was set alight by a group of young people.

“Why aren't they at home? They should be staying at home.

“Staying safe. Not playing with fire. Please talk to your children.

“Not only can Northumbria Police act to enforce the stay at home rules, but you can tell us who is causing these fires, anonymously.”

A spokesperson for the service added: “Already we are seeing deliberate fires increase across Tyne and Wear by 20%, the greatest rise is in the wards of Redhill, Kingston Park South and Newbiggin Hall, Hendon and Southwick.

“On Monday there was a fire in North Hylton, and last night in Milkwellburn Woods in Chopwell and today in Tunstall.

“While we can’t say all these fires are being set by young people, a group of youths was seen running away from the fire in Tunstall.

“This is a critical time in all our lives.

“Parents and carers need to ensure their children abide by lockdown.

“Not only are they placing themselves at risk from fire, but by not self-isolating they could be in danger from the coronavirus – as could their parents and families.

“We would urge parents to talk to your children and more importantly ensure they stay at home.

“Protect our NHS and Save Lives – it could be theirs”.

FireStoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 169 5558.

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