Attacks on firefighters rise by 200%

Attacks on firefighters have increased dramatically

Attacks on firefighters have more than doubled in the past 12 months.

The Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) said that in the 12 months to March 2017, the number of attacks on firefighters had risen dramatically. GMFRS also revealed details of shocking incidents where youths had deliberately started fires to lure fire crews and then pelt them with missiles and abuse.

The new Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, has condemned the attacks. Mr Burnham, who has powers over both police and fire as part of his new role, said he is saddened and appalled.

He added: “My heart sinks when I hear that Greater Manchester firefighters are being treated in this way. It is truly appalling. There is no excuse for it. I think most young people would also be appalled. They would say these young people don’t represent them in any way, shape or form. The idea of attacking people who are there to protect the public, to save lives, is beyond belief.”

Baroness Beverley Hughes, Deputy Mayor for Policing and Crime, said: “This is senseless and dangerous not only in terms of the danger to firefighters, but also to other people who might need that fire engine when it has been called out deliberately so that crew can be attacked.

“We operate zero tolerance to incidents against any public servant.”