Clean Kent tackles wheeled bin fires
A fire in a wheeled bin might seem harmless, but it is a serious crime that affects hundreds of people across the county. Clean Kent wants to raise awareness of these dangers and is currently showing a hard-hitting cinema advert across the county.
Certified as a 12a, the advert is aimed at communicating the inherent dangers of wheeled bin fires to young people who are especially prone to committing these crimes.
In addition to tackling wheeled bin fires from an arson perspective, Clean Kent is providing local businesses with information and advice on the best way to dispose of their rubbish to keep them safe from such crimes.
Clean Kent Co-ordinator Melanie Price explains:
"Working with our colleagues at Kent Fire and Rescue we identified wheeled bin fires as a real and dangerous issue in Kent.
"Deliberately started fires of this nature not only put the lives of the general public and firefighters at risk but also have devastating consequences on businesses as well. As part of our ongoing commitment to reduce rubbish fires, we have seen a countywide reduction in these crimes by 40 per cent* but need now to bring this particular issue to the public's attention."
Stuart Skilton, Head of Community Safety for Kent Fire and Rescue Service, added:
"We know that the majority of rubbish related fires we attend are set deliberately. We also know that it is tempting for some young people to start fires in wheeled bins for a variety of reasons. But what this campaign graphically highlights is how easy such an act can quickly get out of control and potentially lead to significant fire injuries or death.
"We want young people to be aware of these dangers and consequences and promote a socially responsible behaviour to deter others from participating in fire setting."
*Source: Kent Agreement 1, Outcome 14 Final Data, Kent County Council and Kent Fire and Rescue Service.
The Final Film
