Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue and Lincolnshire County Council have issued a joint warning following a series of targeted break-ins at fire stations across the county, which have seen vital life-saving equipment stolen.
During the winter months, fire crews attend as many road traffic collisions as fires, relying on specialist rescue tools to free people trapped in damaged vehicles quickly and safely. It is this critical equipment that criminals have now set their sights on, with several stations targeted in the past week.
Fire and Rescue officials say the consistent methods of entry and the similar equipment taken strongly suggest the incidents are the work of a highly organised group deliberately targeting local fire stations.
Cllr Sean Matthews, leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said: “It’s outrageous that anyone would target an emergency service and their life saving equipment at this time of year.
“We’re closely working with the police and our local stations to ensure that existing security measures are enhanced, and we catch these criminals before they do any further harm.
Cllr Alex McGonigle, executive councillor for Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, said: “The specialist equipment taken is designed to gain access to vehicles in order to rescue trapped casualties.
“Minutes can make all the difference in emergencies. If one of these stations was called on in the middle of the night to find equipment missing, it seriously jeopardises their ability to perform safe rescues and puts lives at risk.
“And while the equipment can be replaced, our worry is that, in the wrong hands, these tools could be used for criminal purposes. So, we’re asking everyone to be wary of anyone potentially impersonating a firefighter with rescue equipment.
“Our firefighters are, more often than not, accompanied by a fire engine at live incidents. And, if they aren’t in the middle of a rescue or fire incident, they’ll be happy to present their ID and credentials.
“If you notice any suspicious activity around your local fire station, or area in general, you can report it to the police on 101, or anonymously via Crimestoppers.”
Crimestoppers is an anonymous police reporting line that can be reached on 0800 555111 or crimestoppers-uk.org.uk
