Fire safety warning after Darlington park targeted by arsonists

Parents are being urged to speak to their children about the dangers of starting fires.

On the evening of Saturday, April 18, a young boy was seen trying to start a fire in Cockerton Park. In doing so, he set fire to his hands.

Through their CCTV enquiries, officers from Darlington Police have identified the boy, who is aged 12. He is currently under investigation for arson.

Last year, Cockerton Park play area was repeatedly targeted by vandals who set fire to play equipment, causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.

As a result, all timber play equipment was removed and the remaining metal play equipment relocated.

As we head into the warmer months and lighter nights, we’re urging parents to talk to their children about the dangers of deliberately starting fires, the destruction they can cause, and the devastating and fatal consequences of their actions. 

Sergeant Rachel Duncan-Kelf, from Darlington Neighbourhood Police Team, said: “Deliberate fire setting is an utterly reckless act which can have devastating and far-reaching consequences.

“It goes without saying that deliberately starting fires is extremely dangerous, particularly during the warmer months when the grass is dry and fires can quickly get out of control.

“Throughout last summer, a number of parks across Darlington were repeatedly targeted by vandals, which caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.

“We know this behavior often starts as a result of peer pressure or boredom, but that’s simply not acceptable.

“Deliberate fire-setting isn’t a harmless act – it can cause significant damage to property, they destroy wildlife habitats, and ultimately put people’s lives at risk.

“Parents also have a responsibility to know where their children are and what they are doing.”

Extra patrols will be carried out by police in hotspot areas, and anyone found to be setting fires deliberately will be dealt with robustly. 

Chris Knox, head of community safety at Darlington Borough Council said: “We will continue to work with the police and fire service to prevent these types of incidents. As ever we would urge residents to be vigilant and report anything suspicious and we would ask parents to make sure they know where their children are.”

Darlington Station Manager Billy McAloon, from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS), said: “Deliberately setting fires is not a game. It can endanger lives and damage property.

“When our firefighters are called to avoidable incidents it puts a strain on resources which can affect the availably of crews to attend critical incidents like house fires and road traffic collisions.

“We would encourage parents and families to talk to their children and young people about the dangers and serious consequences of setting deliberate fires.

“Please remind them that arson is a crime that can result in prosecution and may have lasting implications for future education and employment opportunities.

“We want to reassure our communities that we take all deliberate fires seriously and are working closely with Durham Constabulary and Darlington Borough Council to address the issue head-on through prevention, education, and having a visible presence in the community.

“Last week, our firefighters have been carrying out joint patrols in Cockerton West ward area with Durham Constabulary and Darlington Borough Council this week as part of a coordinated response to deter further incidents and provide reassurance to residents.

“Residents can also play a vital role in helping to prevent deliberate fires by reporting concerns anonymously through FireStoppers on 0800 169 5558 or online at www.firestoppersreport.co.uk.”