Cleveland Fire set up task force to deal with deliberate fire setting
Cleveland Fire Service say they've had to set up a dedicated task force to try and tackle the rise in deliberate fires being set across the region.
Cleveland Fire Service say they've had to set up a dedicated task force to try and tackle the rise in deliberate fires being set across the region.
The service say they are calling on parents to speak with kids, to try and help them understand the dangers of setting deliberate fires.
The Brigade's statistics show from April to the end of June 2025 firefighters responded to 305 deliberate fires in Hartlepool alone.
This was an increase of 120 incidents, equating to almost 65%, compared to the 185 recorded during the three month period in 2024.
An even greater rise was seen in the figures for the whole Cleveland brigade area during the first quarter of 2025/26, which includes Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland and Stockon-on-Tees, as well as Hartlepool.
In total 2,036 deliberate fires were logged, up more than 122% from 916 the previous year.
Brigade bosses stated “deliberate fires remain one of the biggest challenges we face across the region” and stressed they are working closely with police, councils and other partners over the issue.
A Cleveland Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Unfortunately, there has been a rise in deliberate fires across the brigade area over the summer months.
“These fires put lives at risk, destroy local wildlife habitats, and damage much-loved space used by families, walkers, and the wider community.
“Our crews respond to deliberate fires like this far too often. It’s not only dangerous but also deeply disheartening. Every deliberately set fire pulls vital resources away from other emergencies where lives may depend on us.”
Fire brigade chiefs noted they are also encouraging parents and carers to “know where their children are and to speak with them about the dangers and serious consequences of setting fires.”
They added: “A quick conversation can make a real difference.
“To tackle this issue, we’re working closely with Cleveland Police, local authorities, and other partners, including a dedicated taskforce, to identify those responsible and take appropriate action.”
The spokesperson continued: “Your information could help prevent serious harm.
“We remain committed to protecting our communities and reducing deliberate fires, through both an effective emergency response and long-term prevention efforts.”
It comes after in July Cleveland Fire Brigade launched its annual summer campaign focusing on promoting safer neighbourhoods by raising awareness of key seasonal risks and seeking to help reduce deliberate fires.