Reduction in Easter Grass Fires

North Staffordshire saw a 29% decrease in grass fires over this year’s Easter break compared to the same period last year Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service has revealed.

From April 11th until April 24th this year there was a total of 110 grass fires in Stoke-on-Trent, Newcastle and the Moorlands compared to 154 during last year’s Easter holidays.

The Moorlands suffered 15 grass fires both this year and last year however Stoke-on-Trent area experienced 68 this year compared to 96 last year and Newcastle area had 27 this year compared to 43 last year.

Prevention Manager, Mick Daniels said: “Although 110 fires are still 110 too many we are pleased to see a significant reduction following our hard work with our grass fires campaign.

“We launched the grass fires campaign last month with support from Port Vale and Stoke City football players, with a view to educating young people about the dangers of grass fires.

“Not all grass fires are started deliberately however they are almost always avoidable. Whilst we are dealing with grass fires, it means some of our crews aren’t available to attend other emergencies - we would also ask parents, guardians and the community at large to assist us in re-enforcing this safety message. There is nothing worse than seeing a community area blackened and destroyed by fire

“The grass fires campaign will continue throughout the summer months and we will continue to patrol and monitor those areas which are causing us problems with help from our partners.”

In an emergency dial 999. For all other non emergency enquiries contact: 08451 22 11 55 or log onto: www.staffordshirefire.gov.uk or www.direct.gov.uk/firekills.