Fire chief slams yobs who threw stones at crew
Firefighters targeted in Raploch
Firefighters in Stirling came under attack on Bonfire Night, as crews around Scotland were senselessly targeted on the busiest night of the year.
At 7.23pm, firefighters called to a bonfire in the Raploch had projectiles thrown at them.
Local Senior Officer Iain Vincent said: “It was disappointing to see yet another attack on our personnel, given our efforts to engage with the local community and our work in youth diversion schemes.
“We will continue our efforts to bring about a reduction in these mindless actions from a small number of individuals.
“Despite these attacks, firefighters provided an excellent service on one of our busiest nights responding to emergency incidents across the area. As an organisation we have a duty of care towards our employees and we are committed to protecting our frontline staff who work in challenging circumstances to make communities safer.
“I would like to thank everyone who celebrated Bonfire Night by going to an organised display, as well as anyone who alerted local authorities to the build-up of bonfire materials.”
Across the country, Scottish Fire and Rescue Service crews were faced with missiles and fireworks being thrown at them as they worked tirelessly to keep people safe.
Between 4pm and midnight firefighters across the country had responded to 970 incidents, including 326 bonfires and Operations controls had dealt with hundreds of calls.
SFRS Assistant Chief Officer (ACO) Lewis Ramsay said: “Attacks on emergency responders are completely unacceptable and I am sure the public would be outraged by incidents where their firefighters have been targeted while working to protect people and property.
“Those responsible should know that the authorities take these criminal actions extremely seriously and we will work closely with police to ensure they are identified and held to account.
“We will continue our efforts to bring about a reduction in these dangerous actions by a small number of individuals. As an organisation we have a duty of care towards our employees and we are committed to protecting our frontline staff who work in challenging circumstances to make communities safer.”
Attacks were also reported on crews in Ardrossan, Greenock, Glasgow, Clydebank, Stenhousemuir and Edinburgh.
ACO Ramsay said: “Bonfire Night is typically the service’s busiest night of the year, but in addition to numerous bonfires firefighters continue to respond to the full range of emergencies we face on a daily basis.
“Our frontline crews and Operations Control personnel are extremely dedicated and I would like to pay tribute to their professionalism, skill and hard work which enabled them to help protect communities across the country.”