Waste fires warning after blaze at derelict Sunderland college site

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) is one of many emergency services helping to keep people safe during the coronavirus public health crisis.

Despite non-essential community work being suspended, firefighters are continuing to respond to incidents across the region.

RELATED: Fire chief’s plea over ‘extreme rise’ in deliberate fires putting people 'in mortal danger' during lockdown

A fire broke out at a former Sunderland College building in North Hylton on April 3, with seven fire engines on the scene at the peak of the blaze.

The fire has since been revealed to be accidental and was caused by “controlled burning” inside the building which got out of hand.

With several vacant buildings and business premises across Tyne and Wear as a result of the Government lockdown to minimise the spread of Covid-19, brigade bosses say it is vital that fire safety measures are maintained.

According to Chief Fire Officer (CFO) for TWFRS, Chris Lowther, both landlords and the public have a role to play.

“The fire in North Hylton was caused by controlled burn that spread to the roof and caused a great deal of damage unnecessarily,” he said.

“Now is a time for people to remember how easy it is for fires to get out of control, you can’t leave a fire unattended because fire grows really quickly.

“At this time, I would encourage everyone to think twice before burning waste either on business premises or in the garden at home as this could create unnecessary strain on the fire service.

“The fire service should be looking to save lives and that’s what our primary concern is.

“I need help from the public, think again if you’re going to burn waste and if you are, make sure it’s a small amount, make sure you have water and that the fire is not left unattended.

“Otherwise it could end up like the fire in North Hylton which caused a great deal of damage.”

The fire chief said he had been working closely with the region’s Fire Authority and Sunderland City Council to carry out forecasting to minimise fires across the region.

CFO Lowther said: “Myself and the chair of the Fire Authority have worked closely together and I know I have the support of the politicians of Sunderland City Council which is the lead authority.”

In a message to businesses, he added: “Coronavirus has quite clearly disrupted many working practices and reduced staffing levels for many many businesses – but it’s absolutely vital that fire safety measures are maintained.

“I would recommend as Chief Fire Officer that all business owners or managers review their risk assessments in light of the Covid-19 public health crisis.”

For more information on fire safety advice, visit: www.twfire.gov.uk

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