Public urged to report suspicious activity after targeted fire station break-ins
Security to be stepped up across Lincolnshire sites after life-saving equipment stolen
Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue is urging people to report any suspicious behaviour around fire stations, after two targeted break-ins saw vital rescue equipment stolen.
Stations in Corby Glen, near Bourne, and Woodhall Spa were hit over the weekend, with thieves taking specialist kit worth tens of thousands of pounds.
Assistant Chief Fire Officer Joe Haustead says the attacks appear deliberate and part of a wider pattern.
“We believe what's happened over the weekend is a targeted attack… and there’s a pattern developed over the last couple of months where perpetrators have gained entry… and specifically targeted the rescue equipment," he said.
He warned the stolen items are critical for emergency response.
“This is life-saving equipment… there for our firefighters to deliver a service to the public and obviously to save lives and deal with emergencies.”
“For a full set of it, you’re talking tens of thousands of pounds… but the costs are far more significant than just the equipment that’s been stolen.”
A direct appeal has been issued for anyone who notices unusual activity to act quickly.
“If you do see anything suspicious at all, please contact Crimestoppers immediately or the police directly… the sooner we bring these perpetrators to task, the better," said Assistant Chief Haustead.
In response, Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue says it’s working with police locally and nationally, and stepping up security at sites.
“We are also putting steps in place so that we upgrade the security at all our fire stations… to make sure the security is a lot more robust.”
Crews and staff across the county are now on heightened alert, with concerns the break-ins may have been planned in advance.
Investigations are ongoing.