Fire chief warns of danger

Rochdale Borough Commander Michael Barke has sent a warning out to businesses and households in the borough following recent serious fires to premises where rubbish outside the building was a factor.

Rubbish that had been left outside has been deliberately set alight and has created major problems for the occupants or owners.

The Borough Commander’s advice is to safely store rubbish away from the building in proper containers and bins, and to ensure that it isn’t allowed to build up or be accessed by arsonists.

Commander Barke said, “Incidents involving rubbish are becoming more common, and recently we have had to deal with some quite serious ones where the fire has spread to a building.

One incident at a house in Falinge spread to two houses causing fear and distress to the owners and placed them in real danger. Other incidents have been at businesses with similar outcomes.”

“I would also urge owners of empty buildings to check their properties on a regular basis, and clear rubbish away to avoid problems caused by arsonists. The last thing anybody wants is for mindless idiots to destroy buildings by setting fire to rubbish outside that spreads to the property.

Households should do the same and if they wish to have a free home fire risk assessment, with as many free 10 year battery smoke alarms fitted as necessary, then they can ring 0800 555 815 to book an appointment.”