Fire service action after East Devon arsons

Attacks on buildings from outside

Following a spate of deliberate fires in both business premises and residential flats in Exmouth and Budleigh Salterton, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has been working with the police and district council to offer safety advice.

Seven arsons in the East Devon coastal towns have been linked by Devon and Cornwall Police. An eighth fire, at the same block of residential flats in Budleigh Salterton, hasn't yet been formally linked, but it was the second fire in five days on the same building that began outside the premises.

The joint activity between the fire service, police and councils, includes:

• A drop-in session for local residents, with officers from fire, East Devon District Council and police.
• Home fire safety technicians visiting residents in areas close to recent arson attacks to offer advice and reassurance, as well as answer questions.
• Fire safety officers and firefighters from Exmouth Fire Station will be visiting businesses to provide advice about reducing their risk of arson attacks.

Darren Peters, area manager for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: “We are working closely with colleagues from Devon and Cornwall Police and East Devon District Council to protect our residents and businesses from the risks of fire. We would ask that the local communities work with us to ensure we prevent further incidents happening by being vigilant and ensuring bins and flammable items are stored safely and away from buildings or vehicles.”

How to help us to help keep you and your community safe:

• Keep rubbish, recycling and combustibles away from buildings.
• Store your bins and refuse securely until collection day.
• Once empty, return and secure your bins.
• Be observant, vigilant and report any suspicious behaviours to the police by calling 101, quoting the crime reference number CR/61698/20 or in an emergency call 999