CANNABIS FARM IN BLAZE HOUSE
WARNING ISSUED BY RESCUE SERVICES
A Wearside house which was severely damaged in a fire had a cannabis farm inside it, authorities have said.
Police and fire bosses say that the recent house fire in Croft Avenue, in Millfield, Sunderland, highlighted the devastating consequences that can be caused by cultivating cannabis plants in domestic properties.
The entire house was damaged and the fire also spread to a neighbouring property, badly damaging its roof.
The blaze, which happened on January 19, was tackled by 28 firefighters.
Assistant chief fire officer Chris Lowther, Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Apart from being illegal, cannabis farms present a clear danger to anyone in the house, their neighbours and firefighters.
“Often they are situated in attics and loft spaces, making it easier for fire to spread to adjoining properties.
“In many cases, the perpetrators bypass the electrical system to power heat lamps, which means they are not protected by a fuse.
“If there is a power surge or the lamps overheat, they will not trip out and can quickly lead to a fire.”
The fire is not being treated as arson, although inquiries are ongoing into the production of cannabis.
Neighbourhood Inspector Jamie Southwell said: “Information we receive from members of the pub- lic is absolutely crucial in helping us to identify where someone may be growing cannabis inside the property.
“Tell-tale signs can be blacked-out windows or windows covered in newspaper, or the curtains always closed.
“Maybe there is a strange smell coming from the property or there may be an intense heat inside.”
Members of the public who want to report concerns to police should contact Northumbria Police on 101.