News Release
Timely wheelie bin safety
Dated: 26 Oct 2011
Police and North Tyneside Council are reminding residents not to leave wheelie bins out waiting for refuse collectors any longer than necessary.
Last year (1-6 November) out of 43 incidents related to Bonfire, 40 were either small rubbish fires or wheelie bins which had been set on fire and damaged by mindless vandals in the run up to Bonfire Night. Officers and council staff want to prevent incidents occurring this year.
Chief Inspector Steve Readdie, from North Tyneside Area Command, said: "Wheelie bin fires are not only a nuisance but can lead to people being hurt and other property being damaged, including vehicles, fences or even properties.
"The Fire and Rescue Service also has to be called out to deal with them, which is a drain on their resources during this busy time of year, and the householder has to foot the bill for a replacement bin which costs £20. We think the best way to tackle this menace is to prevent having to clean up the mess.
“We want to remind people that setting fire to a wheelie bin is an act of criminal damage, it simply won't be tolerated and those responsible will face the consequences of their actions."
Group Manager, Paul Tait, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service said: “We can minimise the risk of this happening by reminding residents to only leave their bins out just before they are due to be emptied, and to collect them in promptly afterwards.
“Wheelie bins can be pushed up against property and if they are not stored back safely, they could be set alight, damaging property and endangering life. We would also ask residents to take in their neighbour's bin too, as soon as it's been emptied, if they know they are not around at the time. “
Neighbourhood teams across the borough are carrying out additional patrols to reassure residents and prevent anti-social behaviour during the run up to Bonfire Night. Northumbria Police will not tolerate anti-social behaviour and officers are asking residents if they see someone acting suspiciously where they live to contact police so they can deal with the problem.
Cllr Pam McIntyre, cabinet member for Engagement and the Environment, said: “We want residents to remember this year’s Bonfire Night for all the right reasons.
“That is why it’s vital people follow the advice given regarding wheelie bins, helping us make our communities safer places for the residents of North Tyneside.”
Northumbria Police is supporting the Tyneand Wear Fire and Rescue Service Bonfire campaign 'Be Safe Not Sorry'. For further information about the campaign go to www.twfire.gov.uk.
Anyone with any concerns about crime or disorder where they live should contact their Neighbourhood Policing Team on 03456 043 043 ext 69191.
Pictured Left to right: SITA site supervisor Mark Bone, North Tyneside Council environmental services area officer Wayne Young, Chief Inspector Steve Readdie and Watch manager David Cass-Williams .