FIRE chiefs have launched a campaign to tackle the number of dangerous blazes being started deliberately.

The Spring Safety initiative aims to protect lives and property in the local area by raising awareness of the consequences of fireraising.

Figures released last week show there were 188 deliberate fires in the area covering East Renfrewshire, Inverclyde and Renfrewshire between March and April last year – a welcome drop of 43% compared to the same period in 2019.

However, bosses at the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) insist there is no room for complacency.

Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Alasdair Perry, SFRS head of prevention and protection, said: “Deliberate fires have the potential to cause injury and even death or cause devastating damage to our environment and properties.

“One deliberate fire is one too many. They are a needless drain on emergency service resources at a difficult time.”

Most reported fires last spring took place outdoors and were set in either grassland or rubbish and refuse. However, some incidents involved vehicles and even buildings.

The significant reduction in the number of deliberate fires coincided with Scotland’s first Covid-19 lockdown, which introduced restrictions on movement.

Mr Perry added: “Last year we saw restrictions put in place on social movement and this year is no different as we continue to tackle this pandemic.

“Our firefighters and community action teams have been and will continue to work extremely hard to engage with the public and promote safety messages but, as we cannot conduct school visits or engage with young people directly through clubs and groups, I would ask parents, guardians and carers to help by making sure children and young people are aware of the risks and consequences of deliberate fire-setting.

“It is vital we continue to remind people that deliberate fire-setting is a crime.”

Anyone with information about deliberate fireraising is asked to call the free and confidential Crimestoppers helpline on 0800 555 111.