Multi-agency operation highlights risks of deliberate fires

Firefighters and police officers came together to raise awareness of the risks of deliberate fires following a spate of incidents in Kendal town centre.

A multi-agency operation carried out on Saturday (14 February) saw Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service conduct a patrol in partnership with Cumbria Police, with firefighters from Red Watch at Kendal Fire Station joined by local police officers to visit anti-social behaviour hotspots.

Jamie Coward, Group Manager for Service Delivery in Westmorland and Furness at Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, said:

“We have attended 19 deliberate fires in the town since April last year, 11 of which were in or near bins, so this operation was a targeted one aimed at educating young people in areas which have been identified as hotspots.

“Even seemingly small deliberate fires can easily spread and pose a risk to life and property, as well as placing an unnecessary burden on emergency services.

“We want to engage with our communities to make sure they understand the risks and deter people from dangerous and criminal behaviour.

“Working in partnership with colleagues from Cumbria Police on this operation shows how seriously we take concerns like this.”

The patrol also identified issues with refuse storage at some commercial properties. Further activity is planned for later this month.

PC Ben Lawson, Community Beat Officer for Kendal town centre, added:

“Joint operations such as the activity carried out on Saturday in Kendal demonstrate the strength of partnership working to tackle local issues.

“Saturday’s action was a concerted effort to address and discourage recent incidents of anti-social behaviour involving bins being deliberately set alight in the area.

“While out on patrol one person was arrested on suspicion of taking a moped scooter without consent, following a report of anti-social behaviour in the town.

“We remain committed to tackling anti-social behaviour throughout the year, ensuring our communities feel safe in their homes and neighbourhoods.”

A spate of deliberate fires involving bins and scrubland last year was also followed up by the watch, who attended Queen Katherine School alongside police colleagues last summer to talk to pupils about the risks associated with starting fires.

Firefighters from Penrith Fire Station also carried out targeted prevention activity working with the Eden Local Focus Hub and Westmorland and Furness Council in December 2025 in response to deliberate fires in Orton and surrounding rural areas.

• FireStoppers provides an anonymous way to report anything you know about deliberate firesetting. It’s managed by the independent charity CrimeStoppers. Reports of arson passed to FireStoppers will be investigated. Call 0800 169 5558 or complete the online form at firestoppersreport.co.uk if you have any information about deliberate fire setting. If an incident requires an emergency response, please call 999.