Area Manager Scott Donegan said “We’d like to thank the public for following safety advice and acting responsibly over the bonfire period. We have seen an increase in 999 calls, however, the arrangements we have put in place have allowed us to continue responding quickly and effectively to emergencies.
“I’d also like to send thanks to all our staff who were responding or supporting operations over this period, from those in the control room, firefighters to those working behind the scenes. It really is a huge team effort, with work starting months before – but the best reward is knowing the day has passed safely for most people in West Yorkshire.”
There were pockets of antisocial behaviour across West Yorkshire over the bonfire period, with six attacks reported on crews.
Scott continues, “Unfortunately we continue to see antisocial behaviour and violence directed towards our firefighters. This is unacceptable, it has an impact on our ability to keep the public safe and can result in fire engines being unavailable for emergency calls. One attack on ana emergency worker is one too many.
“We will work with the Police and other partners to identify the small minority of people engaging in this behaviour.”
West Yorkshire Police Assistant Chief Constable Sarah Baker said “I would like to thank members of the public who have enjoyed this period responsibly.
“Unfortunately, there are a minority of people who use Bonfire Night and the surrounding days as a backdrop for anti-social behaviour and criminality. We have attended a number of incidents over this period in which fireworks have been directed at people, vehicles and property. We know the fear this can cause in communities, and I want to make it clear that this behaviour will not be tolerated and will be investigated.
“Sadly, there have also again been incidences of emergency service personnel and vehicles being targeted with fireworks and other objects. These people are working to keep our communities safe, and these attacks are completely unacceptable. Again, we will be following up on all available lines of enquiry to ensure robust action is taken against those responsible.
“While this is always a busy time for our call handlers, we are thankful to everyone who has contacted us to provide information about incidents in their area. We know there are still a number of events planned into the weekend and would encourage people to continue to follow safety advice to keep themselves and others safe and to report any anti-social or criminal behaviour they may witness.”
With November 5th falling midweek this year there may be some people planning bonfires this coming weekend – if you are amongst them then please visit HERE for advice on how to celebrate safely.