Attacks on fire-fighters putting lives at risk

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Fire service chiefs have spoken of their anger following attacks on fire-fighters – saying they put lives at risks.

The fire service hit out after a gang threw bricks and bottles at fire-fighters as they tackled a fire which the gang had started deliberately in Collyhurst.

County Fire Officer and Chief Executive Steve McGuirk said: “Although attacks on fire-fighters are rare - it only takes one incident to have very serious consequences. Those who attack fire-fighters are also attacking their family and the people within their community. If a fire-fighter is injured or the equipment is damaged this could result in the fire engine and its crew not being available for a real emergency – and this places lives at real risk.

“It is absolutely unacceptable for anyone to assault any emergency worker - at any time. Our crews strive to protect and save the lives of people who live and work in Greater Manchester. It is possible that those people who carry out these cowardly attacks may one day need the help from those very people they are assaulting.”

Chairman of the Fire and Rescue Authority Councillor Paul Shannon added: “Fire crews work very closely with local communities to try and address anti-social and dangerous activities.

“Our fire crews are all dedicated professionals who save lives, rescue people and protect the communities they serve - their safety is paramount to us and mindless acts such as this will not be tolerated.”