Whitefield & Unsworth ATT promotes fire safety

Date published: 10 February 2009

Greater Manchester Fire Service are warning residents in Whitefield and Unsworth about the increasing numbers of wheelie bin fires.

At the last Whitefield & Unsworth Area Tasking Team meeting (ATT), the Fire Service reported an increase in the number of arson attacks involving wheelie bins being set on fire taking place nationally.

In many cases, these bins had been left close to house doors and fencing and were potentially very dangerous.

Bins stored by windows or low walls can also be used to help burglars climb into properties or to carry away stolen property.

Whitefield & Unsworth Area Tasking Team is advising local residents to follow the advice of the Fire Service:
1. Store your bin out of sight and away from property doors and windows and wooden fencing
2. Only put your wheelie bin out on the morning of collection
3. Take it in as soon as possible after collection
4. Do not overfill your wheelie bin, or leave rubbish around it

The Fire Service is also offering Free Home Risk Assessments and Fire Safety Advice when they for free smoke alarms. To book a Home Risk Fire Assessment call 0800 555 815.

Rose De, Local Area Partnership ManagerArea Tasking Team Chair, said “While it is recognised that many properties have several bins to store and limited space in gardens and back yards, residents are encouraged to consider where they keep their bins to minimise opportunities for crime and anti-social behaviour”.