Published on:
03
November 2009
The initiative targeting antisocial behaviour during the run up to Bonfire Night began last Monday (October 26).
The emergency services and local authorities who are working together on Operation Alamo are warning there will be no second chances for anyone caught committing any antisocial behaviour offences during the campaign.
Chief Superintendent Gordon Samson, head of Communities Policing, said: "We have already seen several calls to those behaving in an irresponsible or antisocial manner with fireworks or bonfires. The message is quite clear - their behaviour will not be tolerated. We aim to disrupt their thoughtless actions which can put lives and property at risk.
Between October 25 and October 31, 46 calls were received by police in relation to fireworks and bonfires. Twenty-six were in relation to fireworks and 20 were in relation to bonfires.
During Monday night six calls were received regarding fireworks and bonfires across the force area.
In the Falkirk area four calls were received. One was regarding youths setting fire to a couch on wasteground near Wood Street, Grangemouth around 8pm; wheelie bins had also been set on fire in Zetland Park, Grangemouth, around 9pm; a wheelie bin were set on fire in Mull Court around 1am and fireworks were being set off outside a house in Marion Wilson View, Larbert around 7pm.
In Clackmannanshire police received a report that a wheelie bin had been set on fire in St Serf's Road, Tullibody.
In Argaty Road, Doune, around 7.30pm there was a small fire on the cycle path. Youths were seen to run off on arrival of the fire brigade.
Chief Superintendent Samson added: "Setting fires to wheelie bins and furniture is reckless and dangerous. We don't want to spoil people's fun but we do want the public to celebrate Bonfire Night safely and the best way to do this is to attend an organised event."
Officials from the local authorities, fire and police have carried out joint visits to retailers to ensure that fireworks are being stored safely and are being sold legally. Local authority officials are also removing illegal bonfires and police are taking a zero tolerance approach against those caught setting off fireworks outwith the prescribed times or being abusive to council staff or fire personnel.
These actions will continue to be carried out until the end of the operation on Sunday November 9.
Kenny Taylor, Director for Service Delivery, Central Scotland Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We have already experienced an increase in the number of calls to fires that have been started deliberately. These incidents divert crucial resource away from genuine emergencies and add to the pressure on our crews. Do not underestimate the dangers of bonfires or fireworks as they can kill or injure in seconds if they are not managed correctly. We urge all our communities to attend an organised display to ensure a safe and enjoyable Bonfire night".
Clackmannanshire Councillor George Matchett, Portfolio Holder for Inclusion, said: "The council's officers, working in partnership with Central Scotland Police and Central Scotland Fire and Rescue Service, will be doing everything they can to ensure that residents have fun this Bonfire Night in a safe environment. It is vitally important that people think about how their behaviour can impact on other people in the community. I would also like to reiterate that anybody caught abusing council staff as they dismantle illegal bonfires will not be given a second chance."