RIP: Tragic update from gardaí as search for missing boy (14) is stood down
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14 Dec 2025
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14 Dec 2025
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Firefighters had to deal with about 35 deliberate fires a day last summer, figures show.
Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) data showed that crews responded to 3,195 deliberate blazes between June 1 and August 31 2024.
Authorities said that such fires could endanger lives, as firefighters are being diverted away from genuine emergencies every time they are called to this type of incident.
The fire service said it would take a “zero tolerance” approach and would work with police to identify those responsible.
Last summer homes, businesses, derelict and unoccupied buildings, refuse, grass, crop and woodland were among the places affected by deliberate fires.
Assistant Chief Officer Jon Henderson, SFRS director of prevention, protection and preparedness, said that if crews are putting out dozens of deliberate fires a day during summer that is “time that could be spent elsewhere dealing with genuine emergencies”.
He said: “Deliberate fire-setting, whether it’s affecting a derelict building or woodland, is a crime and it can have a serious impact on local communities, as well as the potential for someone to get badly hurt or worse.
“We want those responsible to understand that getting involved in this type of behaviour can also impact negatively on your future.
“We’ll continue to take a zero-tolerance approach and will work with our police partners to identify those responsible.”
Deliberate fires between June and August 2024 were at their lowest level since summer 2020, when there were 3,244.
Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland said: “Setting fires deliberately is reckless and irresponsible. It can endanger lives and result in significant damage to property.
“It also causes fear and alarm to those living in the local area and diverts valuable emergency service resources.
“We remain committed to working with our partners to reduce the number of these crimes taking place.
“We would urge anyone with information on fires being set in their community to contact police via 101, or 999 in an emergency.
“Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers through 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”
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